The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (75%)-Malbec (25%) Reserve spent 15 months in 2nd use French and American oak. Purple in color with an inviting perfume of smoke, spice box, rose petal, incense, black currant, and black cherry, on the palate it is medium- to full-bodied, ripe, and succulent with an easygoing personality. This forward effort is meant for drinking over the next 4-6 years. Importer: Wine Brindis Importer, Santa Clara, CA; tel. (408) 248-6104

A lot of olive and leather give this wine’s nose a “green” personality that suggests lightly cured tobacco and fresh herbs. The palate is big and grabby, with herbal, roasted berry flavors along with coffee and spice notes. Layered but firm on the finish, with a lasting tannic bite. 75% Cabernet with 25% Malbec. ——M.S.(5/1/2011)—— 87