The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate exhibits a saturated ruby/purple color as well as more subtle smoke, graphite, damp earth, creme de cassis, and blackberry characteristics, and a youthful, full-bodied mouthfeel with impressive concentration, texture, and length. This blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc from high elevation vineyards (2,000 feet) is capable of lasting two decades or more. This iconic winery continues to offer wines with personalities and styles that set them apart (especially the estate wines) from just about anything else readers will taste from California. Estate grown as well as purchased grapes are utilized in their less expensive Saratoga Cuvees. Tel. (888) 865-9463

Intense balsamic aromas. Black cherry fruit, good tannins, firm acidity and violets. Good finish.