The 2006 Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon was 80% aged in French oak for 12 months. More saturated than the “regular” bottling, this purple-colored wine has a nose of cedar, tobacco, black currant and blackberry. On the palate, this medium to full-bodied effort reveals some silky tannin, spicy, savory fruit, and excellent length. Drink it from 2010 to 2017. Importer: TGIC Importers, Woodland Hills, CA; tel. (800) 924-0300; fax (818) 225-5111

Candied black cherry aromas give this a sweet, rich outlook. The palate is bold and heavy, with ripe cassis and other heavy fruit flavors. It’s a big, extracted wine that could use more balance and structure. To this taster, it seems denser and duller than past vintages. Frankly it’s syrupy and chocolaty on the back palate and finish.——M.S.(12/31/2008)—— 86