This dual-appellation wine is a blend of fruit from Napa (two-thirds) and Sonoma counties (one-third). It has lots of jammy blackberry and black cherry fruit, with notes of black pepper. It’s smooth and balanced, with a slightly tannic finish. As a bonus it’s well priced — perhaps even a little under-priced for the quality. Try it with grilled flank steak.
Ghost Pines, California (United States) Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
By Tina Caputo