The outstanding 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Jackson Hills from Jess Jackson’s holdings in Knight’s Valley is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 19 months in nearly all French oak (45% new). Its dense opaque purple color is followed by notes of spring flowers, blueberry and blackberry liqueur, graphite and ink. Full-bodied and rich with moderately high tannins as well as tremendous concentration and length, it needs 2-3 years of cellaring and should keep for 15-20. Kendall-Jackson enjoys a well-deserved reputation for over-delivering quality vis a vis price for its wines.Tel. (800) 769-3649; www.kj.com

From the steep Sonoma slopes of Mount St. Helena comes this tannic, concentrated young 100% Cabernet. Dramatic in structure and flavor, with massively packed blackberries, dark chocolate and pain grille. The wine was aged in 49% new oak, which adds smoky, spice overtones. Drink now and through 2013. ——S.H.(6/1/2010)—— 93