Kaiken’s 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Ultra is reticent aromatically but with coaxing reveals aromas of cedar, spice box, floral notes, black currant and blackberry. Medium- to full-bodied on the palate, it has generous quantities of spice, layered fruit, as well as good balance and volume. It is slightly short in the finish which prevents an outstanding rating. It can be approached now although it is likely to evolve for 1-2 years.Importer: TGIC Imports, Woodland Hills, CA; tel. (818) 225-5100

Spicy and bricky on the nose, with tobacco, earth and herbal red berry aromas. The palate is round and tight, with roasted cassis and berry flavors along with a dusty aftertaste. Sweet on the finish, like brown sugar and roasted berries.——M.S.(11/1/2011)—— 87