certified organic wine has aromas of
ripe blackberries and cranberries;
sweet fruit and hints of oak; soft,
smooth and balanced with a finish
that lingers. ($15)
(89) Bridgman Cabernet 2012
(California). Beautiful aromas of
blackberry and baking spices; red currants and smooth tannins on the palate
are well-integrated with a touch of
oak; the finish features a mouth-watering, pleasant acidity that makes this an
excellent wine to pair with food. ($15)
(89) Inkling Paso Robles Cabernet
2011 (California). An excellent bargain for a Paso Robles cabernet; possessing fresh blackberry fruit and a
touch of vanilla with a nice balancing
acidity; leaves a lingering finish that is
not overly heavy. ($12)
(89) Alterra Cabernet 2010
(California). A silky and refined Napa
cabernet; blackberry fruit transitions
into black pepper, baking spice, and a
touch of coconut; well-integrated oak
balances the flavors on the impressively
long finish; a great deal. ($16)
(89) Monogamy Cabernet
Sauvignon 2011 (California).
Velvety with flavors of plum and dried
herbs; a wonderful value. ($12)
(88) St. Francis Sonoma County
Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
(California). Rich spicy aromas of
cassis, cherry, and plums combined
with moderate tannins; an all-around
crowd pleaser that pairs well with
grilled rib-eyes or smoked ribs. ($21)
(88) Pedroncelli Dry Creek Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
(California). A peppery mid palate
with good moderate tannins, with
CI1309
52 • Beverage Dynamics • www.beveragedynamics.com • September/October 2013
touches of cherry and toasty oak. ($15)
(88) Clos du Bois North Coast
Cabernet Sauvugnon 2010
(California). A balanced cabernet
with the typical blackberry and cassis
flavors. Fruit forward but with complex coffee and herbal notes. ($16)
(88) Gnarled Vine Lodi Cabernet
2010 (California). Flavorful aromas
of blackberry preserves and mocha;
this Lodi Cabernet has the rich fruit
you would expect of the region but
also a nice balancing acidity that sets
it apart from its peers. ($12)
(88) Shannon Ridge High Elevation
Lake County Cabernet Sauvignon
2010 (California). Sustainably farmed
on the steep slopes of the High Valley
appellation in Lake County; a solid
cab with black cherry, vanilla and
spice; good value. ($11)