Strong Cabernet aromas of black cherry, anise and dark cocoa are enhanced by a hint of vanilla. Medium-bodied flavors show fully ripe, earthy Cabernet fruit with a hint of dusty minerals. Moderate acidity, medium tannins and a touch of new oak highlight the fruit beautifully. Flavors show fine depth and structure thanks to the year’s long growing season and outstanding fall weather.

Rating

Readers looking for an undeniably great value in Napa Cabernet should check out the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford, which can undoubtedly be found at a discounted price of under $25 a bottle. A huge sleeper of the vintage, it is somewhat reminiscent of one of the great early value Cabernet picks in the first two or three years of The Wine Advocate, the 1974 Souverain Vintage Selection, which is still going strong, although it reached its peak three or four years ago. The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford has a dense purple color as well as a big, sexy nose of black cherries, cassis, cedar, and wood spice. Lush, opulent, and medium to full-bodied with loads of pure fruit as well as a beautiful, endearing texture, this winner is approachable, but it should drink well for 10-12 years. Robert Parker 90 points (Dec 2009)

Wine maker notes

Grapes from sites throughout Napa Valley were harvested at optimal maturity, then de-stemmed and gently crushed into open-top stainless steel fermenters. Fermentation lasted 7-10 days, reaching a peak juice temperature of 80º F, before pressi_level2ng off at dryness. Fifteen percent of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation in barrel, contributing to a richer mid-palate texture and well-integrated new oak component. The wine was further aged in a variety of oak barrels prior to blending and bottling for 18 months in American and European oak barrels.