This youthful wine is Bordeaux-like in style, with natural Cabernet earthiness yet not at all rustic. Classic cassis, cedar, tobacco and leafy herb notes are supported by very subtle oak and vanilla; the alcohol is restrained 14.3% (compared to many other Cal Cabs), and the structure is firm, with polished tannins. It finishes with a flash of palate-refreshing acidity, and its relatively low pH (3.6) suggests it will improve in the cellar for seven years or more.
Beckmen Vineyards, Santa Ynez Valley (Santa Barbara County, California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
By Linda Murphy