Cabernet Sauvignon: The 2008
Cabernet Sauvignon Vintage at
Cardinale Winery may be one of the best
wines I’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting.
“The 2008 has an aromatic element that
evokes violets and orange blossoms with a
fruit component of dark cherry combined
with a palate that offers currant, ripe
blackberry, and toast with a velvety texture
on a long, drawn finish.”- Christopher
Carpenter. Pair it with a dish that contains
high umami flavoring, such as braised short
rib or mushroom stroganoff. Got some
money to burn? Screaming Eagle, a cult
wine in California due to the small
quantities produced and the high selling
price, has a delicious and Bordeaux-like
Cabernet Sauvignon. Beringer Vineyards
also has top-notch quality Cabernets; their
2001 Private Reserve blends fruit from six
different Napa Vineyards. Honorable
mention: Quintessa Vineyards is one of the
best places to go for a tasting; the grounds
are breathtaking and you’ll finish up at a
perfect hilltop perch, taking in a grand
view of the valley while you sip on one of
Quintessa’s red blends.