Malat’s 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon, grown on sandy, gravelly riverside soils and incorporating approximately 10% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, displays a robe of healthy though not terribly dark red. Scents of mulberry, tobacco and vanilla lead to a palate in which marrowy meatiness and a rich satisfying sweetness are ornamented by notes of toasted nuts, plums, graphite, and high-toned Franc- and Merlot-like florality. Soft, fine tannins permit this to be enjoyed early, and the finish is satisfyingly long and full of fruit. Various importers including Morandell Imports, Los Angeles, CA; tel. (310) 328-5010 and Rosalie Sendelbach Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 260-1870