Black currant and plum aromas come with a defined streak of minty green. The palate, meanwhile, feels boxed in by tannic grip. Flavors of prune, mint and herbal berry lead to an edgy finish with the flavors of carob and herbs.——M.S.(3/1/2012)—— 86

Elegant nose of blackberry, cassis, violet, plum, spicy oak and leather. Fresh and spicy depth with tannins blended in. Graceful, concentrated and refined. Alc: 14%.

Compact on the bouquet, with a pointed combo of boysenberry and blackberry aromas. The palate is full, with plenty of acidity and stuffing. Flavors of blackberry, olive, fig and chocolate are likable and the finish is loud and powerful in typical South American style. Better value than the higher-priced Kinien Cab. Drink now through 2012.——M.S.(11/1/2010)—— 89

The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 9% Petit Verdot and was sourced from 25-year-old vines. The wine was aged for 12 months in barrel, 10% new. Dark crimson-colored, it exhibits an attractive nose of cedar, black currant, and cassis. This leads to a medium-bodied, elegant wine with ample spicy, ripe black fruits, good depth, and a medium long finish. Drink this solid value over the next five years. Importer: Sherbrooke Cellars, Scarsdale, NY; tel. (914) 722-9105