Smith-Madrone, Spring Mountain District (Napa Valley) Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Smith-Madrone is nothing if not consistent. Consistently excellent at a reasonable price. Its 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon could well be the finest $45 red wine from the Napa Valley, where Cabs regularly retail for $100-plus. This vintage from Smith-Madrone is gorgeous on the nose, with aromas of cassis, cedar and spice. On the palate this Cab delivers elegant waves of black and red fruit, with firm tannins. The wine finishes with persistence, lingering on the palate as high-class wines do.