A good choice in the under-$10 category, with hard-to-resist flavors of plum, blueberry and blackberry jam punctuated by notes of fresh green pepper. Cherry and vanilla flavors adorn the palate and hang around just long enough to be memorable. A great partner for spare ribs. Drink before 2011.——W.E.(12/31/2009)—— 84

Light in body, but fresh and clean, this was a surprise performer in our last round of tastings. Herbal overtones to the cedar, cherry and tobacco notes are correct from a flavor standpoint, but note that this wine doesn’t have the stuffing to pair with hearty, traditional Cabernet pairings.——J.C.(11/15/2007)—— 85

There’s an unusual but interesting note that accompanies the dusty blackberry aromas—apple, maybe? On the palate, ripe red plum and berry fruit is enveloped by dusty tannins. Fresh, easy to drink, and just the thing for pizza night.——D.T.(11/15/2004)—— 86

The mouthefeel on this wine is pretty nice, though it’s a bit high on acid. Hickory, smoke and an underlying meatiness are present here from beginning to end. Fruit (stewed fruit, to be specific) doesn’t show until the back end.——D.T.(9/1/2001)—— 83