Ferrari-Carano, Alexander Valley (Sonoma County, California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

 Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petit Verdot form an unorthodox blend that was aged in French oak.  Petit Verdot with Cabernet Sauvignon, yes, but Syrah and Cabernet?  However, the wine smells and tastes like Cabernet Sauvignon, while the 16% Syrah gives the fruit lift and dimension without losing the Cabernet varietal identity.  It has a very deep ruby color, smoky-toasted oak, spice and low intensity berry notes in the nose.  The entry is richly textured with the Syrah rounding off the corners of the angular Cabernet Sauvignon.  It’s loaded with fruit, nicely balanced, 14.5% alcohol, integrated tannins and good length and structure.  Ferrari-Carano 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is an inventive and richly textured red wine and may be one of the most usual Cabernet Sauvignons you are likely to drink this year.