The Cabernet Sauvignon Shootout...
A Wine Challenge
The Final Showdown Wines
- Raymond Vineyard and Cellars 1999 Generations Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $65
- 3000 cases produced
A soft entry of cherry and clove also hints at cassis. Very juicy on the palate with integrated earthy tannins and jazzy raspberry finish. Wow! 
(96) (Blue)
- Calistoga Cellars 2001 Louer Family Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $30
- 2300 cases
produced Plenty of stuffing supports the sweet nose of licorice, black currant and pure cherry nose. Nice mineral structure built into dense layers of oak, spice, and berries. Sandalwood hints and a big chocolate finish wow the palate! - (95) (Black)
- Flora Springs Winery 2001 Rutherford Hillside Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $85
- 728 cases produced
Rich sweet cream, tea, white pepper and spice, chocolate, cinnamon, and berries entice one to sip, smell, and repeat this process. An engaging and seductive wine! - (94) (Dark Green)
- Thomas Fogarty Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Cruz Mountains $55
- 360 cases
- Incredibly dense fruits including cherry and blueberry, and classic composure of cedar and oak weave through a packed and rounded tannin structure, complete with a cherry and anise minerality for good measure in the finish.
- (93.5) (Pink)
- The Hess Collection 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley $35
- 8000 casees produced
Very nice integration of oak, spice, and deep black fruit mixes with tobacco and tar in the smooth and complex palate, and come to a long, slow finish that hints toward mint and herb. - (93) (Lilac)
- Trefethen Vineyards 2001 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley $40
- 1414 cases produced
Classic cassis and cherry aromas prepare the sipper for ripe red and black fruit flavors that last and last and last… begging for another sip. Complex and persistent flavors abound. - (93) (Brown)
- Castoro Cellars 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $15
- 3335 cases produced
A terrific example of mid-weight Cabernet. Great florality and pretty Kirsch aromas go nicely with its ripe palate. - (92) (Light Blue)
- Forth Vineyards 2001 FORTH Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley $28
- 525 cases produced
Blackberry, cherry, chocolate, fragrant blueberries, sandalwood, and ever onward through the great balanced structure and into the leather tinted, layered berry finish. Very delicious. - (92) (Red)
- Louis Martini 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California $26
- Deep earth, cassis and black cherry meld with good texture, structure, and fruit body- leaving the taster with nice brown spice backnotes.
- (92) (Yellow)
- Beringer Vineyards 2000 Quarry Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $80
- 200 cases cases produced Red plum and currant meet a hint of char in the nose to present a creamy cherry texture and bright fruit flavor profile along with good fruit and nice oak in the finish.
- (91)(Green)
- Black Opal 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, South Eastern Australia $10
- Sweet jammy red currant, plum, and cherry balance with vanilla oak to bring elegance to the midpalate and charming simplicity to the finish.
- (91)(Orange)
- Rosenblum Cellars Cabernet 2000 Yates Ranch Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Veeder $30
- 630 cases produced
Hints of smoke, violets, cassis, and lavender join scents of berry pie seamlessly continue through the full palate and finish with a touch of mineral and plenty of roundness. - (91)(White)
The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Shootout
- Raymond Vineyard and Cellars 1999 Generations Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$65
- 3000 cases produced
A soft entry of cherry and clove also hints at cassis. Very juicy on the palate with integrated earthy tannins and jazzy raspberry finish. Wow! - (96) (Blue)
- Calistoga Cellars 2001 Louer Family Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $30
- 2300 cases produced Plenty of stuffing supports the sweet nose of licorice, black currant, and ripe cherry nose. Nice mineral structure built into dense layers of oak, spice, and berries. Sandalwood hints and a big chocolate finish wow the palate!
- (95) (Black)
Flora Springs Winery 2001 Rutherford Hillside Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $85
Rich sweet cream, tea, white pepper and spice, chocolate, cinnamon, and berries entice one to sip, smell, and repeat this process. An engaging and seductive wine!
(94) (Dark Green)
Thomas Fogarty Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Cruz Mountains $55
Incredibly dense fruits including cherry and blueberry, and classic composure of cedar and oak weave through a packed and rounded tannin structure, complete with a cherry and anise minerality for good measure in the finish.
(93.5) (Pink)
Echelon 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, California $12
Tight plum, creamy caramel, cassis, and a pretty summer/ mixed dark fruit perfume scent this nicely balanced wine that returns in the finish to offer round fruit and a hint of chocolate mint.
(93)
Reynolds Family Winery 2001 Estate Select Cabernet Sauvignon Napa $45
Voluptuous dark fruit and cherry aromas carry all the way through the concentrated fruit on the palate, ending with a big kiss of oak.
(93)
The Hess Collection 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley $35
Very nice integration of oak, spice, and deep black fruit mixes with tobacco and tar in the smooth and complex palate, and come to a long, slow finish that hints toward mint and herb.
(93) (Lilac)
Trefethen Vineyards 2001 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley $40
Classic cassis and cherry aromas prepare the sipper for ripe red and black fruit flavors that last and last and last… begging for another sip. Complex and persistent flavors abound.
(93) (Brown)
Valentine Vineyards 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $28
Inviting aromas of cassis and black cherry backed by sweet cinnamon and a basket full of bright mixed berries echo throughout drifting away into nice vanilla notes at the end.
(93)
Castoro Cellars 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $15
A terrific example of mid-weight Cabernet. Great florality and pretty Kirsch aromas go nicely with its ripe palate.
(92) (Light Blue)
Forth Vineyards 2001 FORTH Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley $28
Blackberry, cherry, chocolate, fragrant blueberries, sandalwood, and ever onward through the great balanced structure and into the leather tinted, layered berry finish. Very delicious.
(92) (Red)
Frank Family Vineyards 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $65
Rich flavors and aromas that match fragrances of cinnamon, clove leather, plum, berry, and cherry offer a finish that shows off pleasant black fruit qualities with cherry acidity and hint of white cocoa. Reminiscent of a Super Tuscan.
(92)
Louis Martini 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California $26
(92) (Yellow)
Stryker Sonoma 2001 Monte Rosso Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley $48
A nice compilation of spice, plum and minerally cassis is supported by racy structure and a polished finish.
(92)
Beringer Vineyards 2000 Quarry Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $80
Red plum and currant meet a hint of char in the nose to present a creamy cherry texture and bright fruit flavor profile along with good fruit and nice oak in the finish.
(91)(Green)
Black Opal 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, South Eastern Australia $10
(91)(Orange)
Rosenblum Cellars Cabernet 2000 Yates Ranch Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Veeder $30
Hints of smoke, violets, cassis, and lavender join scents of berry pie seamlessly continue through the full palate and finish with a touch of mineral and plenty of roundness.
(91)(White)
Butterfly Creek Winery 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sierra Foothills
A big burst of red cherry with sweet vanilla notes back up an amalgam of cinnamon spice, cedar, and leather all in a medium weight frame with balanced, pretty acidity.
(90)
Kathryn Kennedy Winery 2000 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Cruz Mountains $135
Very approachable nose of tight blackberry, cassis, coffee, and cedar develop into plum with black pepper accents. The palate consists of structured cherry spice, cassis, and dark brown sugar notes. Loads of ripening tannin lead into a huge, long finish. An ager!
(90)
Louis M. Martini 2000 Monte Rosso Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley, $55
(90)
Windsor Vineyards 2000 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County
Spice and berry dominate the nose and draw you in! Floral and coffee undertones give an extra dimension to this tasty number.
(90)
CE2V 2001 Secret Clone Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, $100
Immense and jam packed with lots of everything: Coffee, cedar, brown spice, cracked pepper, plum, cassis, berry aromas fully integrated with loads of toasty oak, silky mouth coating tannins, mineral and ripe cherry core, and a juicy, balanced finish.
(89.9)
J. Lohr Vineyards and Winery 1999 Hilltop Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles $32
Saturated with full throttle fruit! Add a mix of herb, spice, and bright acidity and one has the recipe for fun! Mouth coating and satiny.
(89)
Trentadue Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County, $22
Cherry juice inside and out, complimented by sweet wood and ripe red cherry in a framework that should cellar beautifully. Delicious, young, and bright.
(89)
Conn Creek Winery 2000 Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $28
Inviting aromas of rich black fruit, red cherry, and mocha-mint give a Bordeaux-like profile to this wine. Really terrific flavors of cassis and raspberry. Drink tonight or in 8 to 10 years, but why wait?
(88)
Frazier Winery 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $45
Wonderful aromatics of black tea, spice rack, coffee, and tobacco swirl around the easy cassis core of this wine.
(88)
R&B Cellars 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $45
Complex aromas of creosote, leather chair, berry, brown spice, cassis, pomegranate, and black fruit. An irresistible palate and long finish make a good combination.
(88)
Terra Valentine 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley $35
Earthy berry and cassis aromas with a nice clove and cedar backdrop make for a beautiful crafted picture of what Napa Cabernet can be.
(88)
Beringer Vineyards 2000 Private Reserve Chabot Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $75
Quiet and shy, this youngster has all the potential: cherry spice, good core of cassis, cedar, and cigar box – all the classic components of Cabernet Sauvignon. Its balanced acidity and long finish show its ageworthyness.
(87)
Beringer Vineyards 2000 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $100
Tobacco, roasted spice, raspberry, and loads of toasty oak aromas surround a plummy core.
(87)
Carmenet 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Lake County $25
Raspberry tea, blackberry and dried currant combine with deep, intense leather and tar aromas lending complexity to the soft round mid-palate. Quiet brooding fruit. This wine has promise.
(87)
Chumeia Vineyards 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast $25
Bright floral cherry and vanilla berry aromas put flesh around the sound tannic structure of this wine, making it complete from start to finish. Velvety finish is a beautiful ending.
(88)
Cosentino Signature Wineries 2001 Estate/Hoopes Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville $65
Roses and dried cherry, cassis and creamy vanilla...this wine has a lot going for it! Spices and rich round fruit make this perfect to taste enjoy in from of a roaring fire either on the beach or in a cozy mountain lodge.
(87)
Cosentino Signature Wineries 2000 Unfined Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $34
Cherry and cocoa, mineral and black licorice aromas and flavors. Intense fruit aromas, extracted and powerful tannin, this wine is SO BIG! The cherry and cassis are lurking beneath, waiting to come out in full. Young, with big potential.
(87)
Dynamite Vineyards 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon North Coast $17
Huge ripeness in the nose is balanced in the palate by savory flavors of coffee, toasty oak, and vanilla. Plenty of acidity keep everything where it needs to be!
(87)
Flora Springs Winery 2001 Wild Boar Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $80
(87)
Frazier 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $45
Medium deep garnet in color. An expressive nose of blackberry, raspberry, cherry, cassis, mint, and a hint of coffee. The flavors are deep with medium to low acid and nice tannins.
(87)
Frazier Vineyards 2000 Lupine Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $30
Toasty oak is well integrated into this complex wine redolent of leather, cassis, and blueberry.
(87)
Gundlach Bundschu Winery 2001 Rhinefarm Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma $32
(87)
Raymond Vineyard and Cellar 2000 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $28
Fresh herbs and berry tea commingle with rich and intense black plum, and opulent cassis. Very intense and delicious.
(87)
St. Supery 1999 Limited Edition Dollarhide Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $70
One of our judges described this wine as “"Full frontal fruitity” with nice acid and tannin counter play." A hint of cinnamon, plum and teaberry notes with soft tannins on the smooth palate that says invitingly, “drink me now.”
(87)
Terra Valentine 2001 Wurtele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $50
Rosy fennel, cherry vanilla, earthy, and coffee qualities introduce this wine. The meaty and full mid-palate follow with a clean ripe cranberry finish.
(87)
Thomas Fogarty 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Oak Knoll District of Napa $55
(87)
Bernardus Winery 2000 Marinus Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley $46
Deep ruby to purple in color with cigar box, tobacco, lavender, and black fruit aromas. Plum, cooked strawberry jam with complex extracted flavors accented by tar and anise. Lots of tannin with good flavors and a long pleasant finish.
(86)
Cakebread Cellars 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $51
(86)
Chateau LaFayette Reneau 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Finger Lakes $19
Deep purple in color with a nose of tight black cherry and cigar notes. The palate is complex with tight black cherry and lots of oak. The tannins are massive.
(86)
Flora Springs Winery 2001 Holy Smoke Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $85
Round and round we go with ripe cherry, plum, cedar, and sandalwood.A late and long finish proves exotic and satisfying.
(86)
Hagafen Cellars 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $40
The color is deep ruby with cherry, raspberry and vanilla aromas. This wine is medium-full bodied with a lush palate of cherry kissed by toasted nut flavors. Zingy acid and deep plum complete the finish.
(86)
Harmony Cellars 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $16
Pleasing red cherry pipe tobacco, coffee, and dark stony fruit alongside complex tannic structure show a big future for this wine.
(86)
Kirkland Ranch Winery 1999 Jamieson Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $25
(86)
Michel-Schlumberger 2000 Schlumberger Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley $75
Oak, cinnamon and cherry on the nose replicating on the palate with added chocolate notes. This wine has distinctly earthy overtones. The tannins are chewy. Give this wine time to deliver its full potential.
(86)
Norman Vineyards 2001 Conquest Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $20
A well made wine with cedar and sage aromas leading to cherry accented by the aromas mid-palate.
(86)
Peju 2001 Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa $38
Black raspberry in the nose and mouth. Full bodied and beautifully balanced.
(86)
Pine Ridge Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District $65
A complex nose of roasted nuts and brambly fruit with cassis, cherry, and intense coffee on entry. Lots of oak with big tannins.
(86)
Raymond Burr Vineyards 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley $38
Allspice, cherry, and cassis frame this fine example of red wine. Moderate oak adds balance.
(86)
Raymond Vineyard and Cellar 2000 Raymond Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $18
Deep, jammy color and aroma suggesting blackberry and vanilla, and delivering the confirmation of that through the palate, with a long finish as a bonus!
(86)
Sebastiani Vineyards and Winery 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County $17
Scented with orange blossom, rich coffee, and red and blackberries that all integrate nicely with the oak presence make for enjoyable drinking.
(86)
Sketchbook 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendocino $25
Medium deep ruby with a tight nose suggesting mixed berry. Wild raspberry and cherry flavors with overtones of cedar throughout. Structured with a juicy mid-palate but it becomes a bit disjointed on the long berry finish.
(86)
St. Supery Vineyards and Winery 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Edition Rutherford Napa (610 cases) $70
Berry, blackberry balance with added cigar box and cedar on the nose. Cocoa covered cherries, laced with oak on the palate. Great complexity makes this wine worth tasting and talking about.
(86)
Beringer Vineyards 2000 Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley $27
Black fruit, oak, and spice spill over into a mineral and roasted coffee laced mid-palate and then the sum of the parts join a gentle orange peel finish.
(85)
Beringer Vineyards 2000 Steinhauer Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $80
Big and full-bodied wine with licorice, chocolate, tar, earth, and cassis aromas evolving into a complex and structured wine on the palate...berries, leather, and a brambly quality adding to the interest. Lovely!
(85)
Bernardus Winery 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Carmel Valley $36
Cassis and cherry with dusty qualities similar to Rutherford Cabernets. Nice on palate but not terribly complex.
(85)
Beaulieu Vineyard 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $25
Faint plum notes on the nose accented by vanillan oak aromas. This wine is very young. Cellar it for at least 2-3 years for full enjoyment.
(85)
Charles Krug Peter Mondavi Family Winery 2000 Generations Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $38
Herbal wild berries, red cherries and fennel aromatics blend together in this special offering.
(85)
Clay Station 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi $13
(85)
Flora Springs Winery 2001 Out of Sight Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $85
Dark berries on the nose with juicy big berries on the palate, layered with tannins. A young wine with good structure that will age well.
(85)
Gallo of Sonoma 1999 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Northern Sonoma $75
(85)
Gallo of Sonoma 1999 Frei Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley $28
(85)
Michel-Schlumberger 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley $32
A very clean smelling wine with graphite, mineral, and cassis aromas layered over cherry. Tannins are still a bit over-powering but should soften with time.
(85)
Pedroncelli Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County $11
Plum and spice cake aromas with a big, juicy mouthfeel over a core of dusty tannin.
(85)
Penfolds 2001 Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon, South Australia $26
(85)
Charles Krug-Peter Mondavi Family Winery 1999 Vintage Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $51
Strawberry jam, mineral, leather, barnyard, and grilled meat notes are followed by cranberry fruit with lots of oak.
(84)
Chateau Margene 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles
(84)
Fetzer Five Rivers Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast $13
A solid, well-balanced wine with an almost chunky mouthfeel – plum, cherry, cinnamon and earthiness with touches of cocoa throughout.
(84)
Foppiano Vineyards 2000 Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon, Russian River Valley $18
Iodine and mineral, and cherry aromas including cherry flesh, cherry bark, cherry jam, evolve into mid-palate rich cherry flavors finishing with cherry tart, mineral and iodine. A complete and satisfying wine.
(84)
Hansen Vineyards 2001 Hansen Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $42
Cherry and menthol aromas carry through on to the palate joined by nice mineral flavors. Ripe fruit with good mouthfeel. Tannins help to create the pretty finish.
(84)
Howell Mountain Vineyards 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain $36
So dark as to appear almost black. This wine is big, rich, and balanced with beautiful berry fruit and lots of tannin to insure age ability.
(84)
Judd's Hill Winery 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $40
Tobacco and sweet cherry aromas and flavors with medium weight on the palate. Bright acidity indicates that this will open up with time. A nice floral finish makes this a pretty wine.
(84)
KitFox Vineyards 2002 The Sunflower Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, California $14
A nice wine with barnyard elements on the nose over cherry fruit following through onto the palate and a good finish.
(84)
Raymond Burr Vineyards 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley
Creamy cherry on the nose. The palate is full and ripe and lush with an interesting florality that may reveal more complex flavors with time.
(84)
Robert Hall Winery 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $20
Deep ruby in color. Black currant with lots of bell pepper overtones.
(84)
Rosenblum Cellars 2001 Mountain Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $26
Medium ruby in color with cassis aromas. Chocolate, licorice and sweet tobacco accents entice. The tannins are BIG.
(84)
Round Hill Family of Wines 1999 Silverado Trail Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $25
Eucalyptus and red fruit aromas and flavors. A bit lean on the palate but has potential. A nice wine.
(84)
Rutherford Ranch 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $14
A summer weight wine with delightful raspberry and cherry aromas and flavors.
(84)
Sterling Vineyards 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $25
Lots of barnyard and leather on the nose.
(84)
Villa Mt. Eden 2001 Tall Trees Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $12
A dark ruby wine with an intense nose highlighted by plum and cherry. Cassis and black cherry flavors are layered with toasty oak. Firm tannins and nice balance make this a great value.
(84)
Wild Horse Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $20
Rose aromas highlighted by cedar and cinnamon notes. Fruit in the mid-palate is appealing creating a nice mouthfeel.
(84)
Zahtila Vineyards 2000 Zahtila Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford $27
Cherry cola, licorice, clove and anise on the nose deliver simple fruit forward flavors. A nice, simply fruity wine perfect for sipping on the beach this summer.
(84)
Beringer Vineyards 2000 Bancroft Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain $75
Tight and closed. Still very youthful. There is plum underlying the oak and tannin structure. Should soften with time integrating and showing more of the fruit characteristics.
(83)
Chatom 2001 Chatom Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Sierra Foothills $18
Deep red with rich aromas of cherries, berries and toasty oak with a dusty note. Lots of tannin here over concentrated clear fruit. Needs time.
(83)
Eberle Winery 2000 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $25
Smoky, meaty, squashed cherry aromas with back notes of damp earth. Thick and rich on palate, but tightens up with a tart berry finish.
(83)
Indigo Hills 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast $12
(83)
Kenwood Vineyards 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma $16
Loads of ripe fruit in the nose and mouth with overtones of barnyard. Drink this soon!
(83)
Lake Sonoma Winery 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley $22
Aromas of sandalwood, cassis, dried mushroom, and dill evolve into
(83)
Miner Family Winery 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa Valley $60
Licorice, cranberry and cherry aromas and flavors. Volatile acidity in this wine is seems a bit high.
(83)
Peacock Family Vineyard 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain $50
Opaque in color, almost black with blackberries and menthol in the nose and mouth. Big and rich mid-palate joined by lots of tannin on the finish.
(83)
Valentine Vineyards 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendocino $27
Mature aromas highlighted by cedar box with muted red fruit and back notes of eucalyptus. Nice wine definitely not a sipper...needs some hearty food. How about a barbecued steak?
(83)
Wooden Valley Winery 2000 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Suisun Valley $14
Dark cherry, chocolate, and cedar box on the nose with cherry fruit on the palate. Good acid on the finish.
(83)
Zahtila Vineyards Beckstoffer Vineyards Georges III Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford $40
(83)
Beringer Vineyards 2000 St. Helena Home Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $80
Deep ruby in color with good weight, black cherry aromas accented by barnyard notes. Big tannins surround the black cherry flavors. Sweet cedar notes on the finish.
(82)
Eberle Winery 1999 Reserve, Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $75
Serious strawberry and cherry jam aromas just enough dusty earth and mineral to make it inviting. The promised flavors are not fully delivered.
(82)
Frank Family Vineyard 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley $40
Sweet cherry, leather, cedar, rich berry fruit on palate, lush tannin and cherry finish. A bit of barnyard to complete the picture.
(82)
Kangaroo Ridge 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Southeast Australia $7
Mixed berry aromas. Simple, straightforward fruit... raspberry and cherry entry through mid-palate with cassis, vanilla, mocha and cedar on the finish. A nicely structured wine with good balance and acidity.
(82)
Kenwood Vineyards 2000 Jack London Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley $30
Dark ruby in color, a nicely structured wine. Lots of alcohol here with big, full middle fruit, nice acidity and a good finish.
(82)
Monterra 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Monterey $13
Strawberry and plum scents evolving into coffee and cherry extract on the palate with accents of earthiness.
(82)
Round Hill Family of Wines 1999 Stagecoach-Krupp Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $35
Nice full aromas with a hint of mint and eucalyptus. The flavors are layered berry and cassis with tannins evident on the long finish.
(82)
Wooden Valley Winery 2000 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $12
Deep and dark, almost black in color. Massive fruit and tannin with sweet cherries being the dominant flavor. Lots of acidity on the long finish.
(82)
Wynns Coonawarra Estate 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra $15
(82)
Beringer Vineyards 2000 Marston Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $80
Garnet in color. Cherry and plum are well integrated with the oak. A hint of mineral adds interest. The wine is a bit tannic with additional cocoa and citrusy acidity on the finish. This wine may age well.
(81)
Herzog Cellars 2000 Special Edition Warnecke Vineyard Unfiltered Cabernet Sauvignon, Chalk Hill $60
Warm coffee and vanilla aromas. Cherry and red berry flavors with overtones of green tobacco.
(81)
Kirkland Ranch Winery 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $25
Dusty aromas and of nutshells, bell peppers and white peppercorns. Round and soft in the mouth.
(81)
Peter Lehmann 2001 The Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa Valley, Australia $20
Ripe strawberry aromas accented by cinnamon toast. A light-bodied wine with a soft middle and rhubarb flavors of the finish.
(81)
Frank Family Vineyard 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford $65
Concentrated cigar and cedar aromas greet you when you pick up this deep ruby colored wine. Deep blackberry and berry flavors accented by vanilla, cinnamon and chili pepper. Lots of tannin here.
(81)
Vina Robles 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley $18
(81)
Barlow Vineyards 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $39
This is a tannic monster but they are there! The hidden aromas and flavors of plum and cassis should abound when the tannins soften.
(80)
Beringer Vineyards 2000 Rancho Del Oso Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $80
Light cedar and mint aromas with deep ripe fruit touched by sassafras. An interesting wine. Our panelists would like to taste this again in 3-5 years. One for the cellar.
(80)
Murrietta's Well Cabernet Sauvignon
(80)
Pine Ridge Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford $40
Loads of oak over the berry aromas and flavors, could evolve into coffee and spice. Needs time!
(80)
Rockledge Vineyards 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, St. Helena $28
(80)
Wolf Blass 2002 Yellow Label Cabernet Sauvignon South Australia, $12
(80)
Dallas Conte 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rapel Valley, Chile $10
Rhubarb, baby’s breath, menthol, and ginseng aromas give way to cherry flavors dominated by herbs.
(79)
Delicato Family Vineyards 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, California $8
Sweet cherry aromas and flavors with cinnamon candy heart accents.
(79)
Duck Pond Cellars 1999 Desert Wind Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley $20
A mature wine in color with rhubarb and cedar aromas and flavors. Drink soon.
(79)
Eberle Winery 2001 Vineyard Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $17
Cassis aromas reminiscent of Pauillac, spruce and wild raspberry join the enticing nose. The palate does not deliver the fruit promised.
(79)
Fetzer 2000 Barrel Select Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County
(79)
Gloria's Old Vines 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley $35
Medium ruby in color. The first impression is of high alcohol giving way to red berry and cherry cola aromas. Young, lean and tannic.
(79)
Gallo of Sonoma 2000 Barrelli Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley $32
(79)
Justin Vineyards & Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $25
Nicely structured wine with juniper berries and nutty oak.
(79)
Silverstone Wines 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $29
A full-bodied wine, dark ruby in color. Dark chocolate and tar dominate the nose with cherry flavors and hints of vegetality on the palate.
(79)
Sterling Vineyards 2001 Vintners Collection Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast $13
Chocolate and coffee layered with the ripe red fruit make this an appealing wine in mid-palate. The finish is short.
(79)
The Hess Estate 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $20
Earthy with pine and cedar notes. Tannins are big but should soften in time to reveal more of the underlying fruit.
(79)
Victor Hugo 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles
(79)
Wente 2000 Charles Wetmore Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, San Francisco Bay
(79)
Wolf Blass 2000 Presidents Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, South Australia $20
(79)
Chateau LaFayette Reneau 2001 Owner's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Finger Lakes $55
Cedar, heather, bright cherry nose with the volatile acidity lifting the cranberry juice aromas to join the others. Playful rhubarb and cherry flavors on the palate.
(78)
Charles Krug-Peter Mondavi Family Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $24
Light notes of cherry, cassis, raspberry with added herbal and vegetal notes on the palate.
(77)
Grove Street Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County $10
Intense forest notes in the nose with added light plum flavors on the palate.
(77)
Devil's Lair Margaret River 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River $23
(75)
Windsor Vineyards 2000 Windsor Vineyards 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Suisun Valley $28
Deep garnet with violets and cedar dominating the nose. Finesse is lacking in this offering.
(75)
The Dessert Wine Stands Alone
Van Der Heyden Vineyards and Winery Late Harvest Cabernet Sauvignon, Arroyo Seco, $50
78 cases produced
Interesting wine, late harvest style. Too difficult to judge this against
the other wines in this competition. But deserves a try when you in the
mode for a unique dessert wine.
Bang for Your Buck Cabernet Sauvignons
Black Opal 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, South Eastern Australia $10
(91)(Orange)
Castoro Cellars 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $15
A terrific example of mid-weight Cabernet. Great florality and pretty Kirsch aromas go nicely with its ripe palate.
(92) (Light Blue)Clay Station 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi $13
(85)
Echelon 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, California $12
Tight plum, creamy caramel, cassis, and a pretty summer/ mixed dark fruit perfume scent this nicely balanced wine that returns in the finish to offer round fruit and a hint of chocolate mint.
(93)Fetzer Five Rivers Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast $13
A solid, well-balanced wine with an almost chunky mouthfeel – plum, cherry, cinnamon and earthiness with touches of cocoa throughout.
(84)
KitFox Vineyards 2002 The Sunflower Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon,
California $14
A nice wine with barnyard elements on the nose over cherry fruit following through onto the palate and a good finish.
(84)
Indigo Hills 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast $12
(83)Kangaroo Ridge 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Southeast Australia $7
Mixed berry aromas. Simple, straightforward fruit... raspberry and cherry entry through mid-palate with cassis, vanilla, mocha and cedar on the finish. A nicely structured wine with good balance and acidity.
(82)
Monterra 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Monterey $13
Strawberry and plum scents evolving into coffee and cherry extract on the palate with accents of earthiness.
(82)
Pedroncelli Winery 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County $11
Plum and spice cake aromas with a big, juicy mouthfeel over a core of dusty tannin.
(85)
Rutherford Ranch 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $14
A summer weight wine with delightful raspberry and cherry aromas and flavors.
(84)
Villa Mt. Eden 2001 Tall Trees Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles $12
A dark ruby wine with an intense nose highlighted by plum and cherry. Cassis and black cherry flavors are layered with toasty oak. Firm tannins and nice balance make this a great value.
(84)
Wolf Blass 2002 Yellow Label Cabernet Sauvignon South Australia,
$12
(80)
Wooden Valley Winery 2000 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$12
Deep and dark, almost black in color. Massive fruit and tannin with sweet cherries being the dominant flavor. Lots of acidity on the long finish.
(82)
Wooden Valley Winery 2000 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Suisun Valley
$14
Dark cherry, chocolate, and cedar box on the nose with cherry fruit on the palate. Good acid on the finish.
(83)Wynns Coonawarra Estate 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra $15
(82)