V. Sattui Winery, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

 Here’s yet another complex, layered, classically-styled wine that belies the prediction that the cool, wet 2011 growing season would spell disaster for Cabernet in California.  The aromas are wonderfully expressive, with leafy, herbal notes that recall Bordeaux more than Napa, though that’s hardly a knock on the wine.  The fruit notes recall blackberry and black raspberry, with excellent freshness and lift from bright acidity, but also plenty of bass notes to balance out all that treble.  I love the energy and freshness of this wine, which also packs enough punch to satisfy on that basis as well.  Platinum Award winner at the 2015 San Diego International Wine Competition.