The Sommelier says…

A lively, almost Cabernet Franc like nose that entices one to dive deeper. You’ll love this wine for its ability to display its black fruit, white pepper and currant profile without being flashy—meaning it’s elegantly subdued with a lot going on; great tannin structure without being too obtrusive with a good oak regimen. Pair this with grilled red meats, or even better, a heavily peppered beef carpaccio. For my vegetarian friends, slow cooked, rich root vegetables would work well, which would enhance the richness of the wine, and the sweetness of the vegetables. The bottom line is that this is an affordable Cabernet Sauvignon worthy of attention—it is a $45 bargain from the Napa Valley. ~Pamela Heiligenthal

The Chef says…

One whiff after you uncork this wine and you will know this one will need a moment to collect its composure and show its full and welcomed presence, sort of like regaining ones sea legs. Subtle and elegant—now that’s two great words seldom used these days. This wine has complexity and depth that is wasted on a lot of audiences not from the school of thought that good things only come to pass with the proper time and most importantly the proper respect. Without proper respect many would have consumed this wine and never known the intense package that lay just beneath the surface waiting for a little bit more time to reveal its luxurious fullness. Big aromas and flavors to match, the 2005 Smith–Madrone Cabernet Sauvignon stands tall among the immense competition for this varietal from this AVA. ~Marc Hinton

Rating: Excellent (90) | $45 | 14.2% ABV

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