Avalon, Lodi (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

 Driven by fruit, nicely framed by oak, and accented by dashes of vanilla and alcohol (14.5%), this gutsy California Cabernet seems designed to be enjoyed with beef or lamb.  It also is a good companion for any dish that offers the earthy flavors mushrooms.  A blend dominated by Cabernet, the wine is further enriched by the addition of Merlot and Zinfandel as well as aging for a minimum of eight months in French and American oak barrels.