A little harsh in mouthfeel, with some minty green notes that give it the flavor of sweet-and-sour cherry and currant sauce. Needs a cheeseburger to tame it.——S.H.(3/1/2009)—— 84

Soft and lush in blackberry-infused chocolate, cherry, licorice and roasted oak flavors, with a hint of red currants, this Cab is, in a word, delicious. It represents how fine Paso Robles Cabernet can be in the right hands.——S.H.(5/1/2008)—— 90

Castoro’s tried really hard to perfect Cabernet in Paso, and this one, from a hotter part of the appellation, shows typically ripe fruit and softness that make it appealing. It’s dryish to slightly sweet, and rich in blackberry and cherry pie filling, melted chocolate and licorice, with a cinnamon spice flourish.——S.H.(12/31/2006)—— 86

Shows good Cabernet character in the full-bodied flavors of black currants, coffee and cocoa, and also shows Paso structure in the softness and low acids. Paso struggles to define its own style and Castoro is trying hard.——S.H.(12/1/2005)—— 85