A strong effort, the dense ruby/purple-tinged 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block exhibits classic aromas of black currants, cigar tobacco, blueberries, and lead pencil shaving. Beautifully proportioned and full-bodied with moderately high tannins, it is still young and unevolved, so 3-4 years of bottle age is recommended. It should evolve for 20+ years.
Carter Cellars is a relatively new operation (it began in the late 1990s) run by Mark Carter and Nils Venge. The wines are made at Venge’s Saddleback Cellars in Oakville with some assistance from Fred Schrader. They have some interesting vineyard sources, including the Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, the Truchard Vineyard in Carneros, the Revilo Vineyard in St. Helena, and the Coliseum Block in Soda Canyon.
Tel. (707) 445-0311; Fax (707) 444-8067