The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Phoenix was aged in 35% new oak. Purple-colored, it has an enticing bouquet of spice box, cassis, and black currant. Sweet, ripe, and layered, it has 1-2 years of aging potential but can be enjoyed now.
Penley Estate has turned out four exceptional values in the 2006 vintage.
Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552; www.penley.com.au