The outstanding, opaque purple-colored 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Gott 8, a blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot, offers up abundant aromas of sweet black currant fruit intermixed with hints of mocha, white chocolate and spice. Full-bodied with sweet tannins, layers of beautiful fruit and a long finish, this beauty should drink well for 15 or more years. Joel Gott, who is also the proprietor of the enormously successful (justifiably so in my opinion) burger and assorted goodies joint on Route 29 in St. Helena, formerly known as Taylor’s Refresher, knows a trick or two when it comes to winemaking.Tel. (707) 963-3365

Very fruity and ripe, with jammy cherry, blackberry and raspberry flavors and a tease of chocolate-covered mint candy. Feels a bit abrupt and direct, so give it a decant and drink soon. ——S.H.(4/1/2011)—— 87