Santa Ema’s 2008 Amplus Cabernet Sauvignon is a glass-coating opaque purple color with a striking nose of balsam wood, cinnamon, incense, rose petal, a hint of balsamic, and blackcurrant. Medium-bodied on the palate, with a round texture, spicy flavors, good grip, and layered fruit, it has enough stuffing to evolve for 1-2 years but can be approached now. Importer: TGIC Importers, Woodland Hills, CA; tel: (818)225-5100

Huge in color and body, with thickness and long legs. The nose has a minty green core that's surrounded by cassis, while the palate is extracted, round and tastes of bouncy young red fruits and boysenberry. Grippy and a little high in acid given the wine's full body and extract level.——W.E.(5/1/2011)—— 87