In much of California, Cabernet is king.  Given the number of warm, sunshine-filled days the state experiences each year, it’s not really a surprise.  And, since so many people grow Cab, it means there’s lots of quality fruit, which leads to some great wines at reasonable prices. Enjoy!

Treana 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape(s): 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Petite Sirah

Region: Paso Robles, California

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

Intoxicating aromas of blueberries, currants, blackberries come together among traces of toasty brown spice, butterscotch, and herbs. Polished tannins frame lush flavors of blueberry, black cherry, and cassis, accented by elements of caramel, toasty clove, and mocha. Forward and exhibiting a lot of barrel influence, fans of smooth (almost sweet) Cabs will enjoy this.

Rating: 90

 

St. Francis 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape(s): Cabernet

Region: Sonoma County, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

There’s aromatics of currants and blackberries that combine with elements of espresso, cedar, and brown spice on the nose. A sip delivers flavors of dark cherry and cassis that flow into allusions of mocha, cedar, and all-spice. Polished tannins and welcoming fruit make this a solid Cab for the price.

Rating: 89

San Simeon 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon

Region: Paso Robles, California

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

A mix of currant and blackberry aromas play among expressions of cedar, mint, and mocha on the nose. Your taste buds are greeted by flavors of bramble berries and dried currants that weave together with suggestions of floral earth, cocoa, and mint. Dry with dusty tannins, it’s an “old school” Cabernet, with a compelling savory character.

Rating: 90

Husch 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape(s): Cabernet

Region: Mendocino County, Ca

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

The nose brings together aromas of blackberries, cherries, and currants with expressions of earth, espresso, and barrel spice. Flavors of bramble berry, plum, and cherry meld with nuances of roast coffee, dark chocolate, and earth on the palate. Supple tannins and a reserved fruit character make this a Cab for lamb.

Rating: 89