Geyser Peak, Alexander Valley (Sonoma County, California) 2012

If there’s a wine that expresses the dark side in a bright way, this is it.  Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah come together in a way that give the best characteristics of each while avoiding any coarseness that you might anticipate when hearing those three names together in the same line.  Black and blue fruit ride atop a full oak load that may prove too much for some. If you’re sensitive to wood flavors, try it with a sharp cheddar.