The 2008 Gun Metal Conner Lee Vineyard is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc. Enticing scents of herbs, spices, and black fruits are followed by a rich, concentrated, impeccably balanced blend that is likely to evolve for 2-3 years. It will provide peak drinking from 2013 to 2023. Guardian Cellars was launched in 2003 by Jerry Riener, a full-time police officer, hence some of the names assigned to his wines. The winery officially opened in 2007 and current production stands at 3600 cases.www.guardiancellars.com

In a cool vintage such as 2008, grapes from this northern vineyard bring a lighter, more elegant style to the Gun Metal red. The blend is half Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc. Strawberry and cherry flavors are pretty but light, like good candy, with a gentle fade.——P.G.(12/15/2011)—— 89