2001 Stuhlmuller Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley
~$30.00

This Cab was recommended by Josh, one of the distributors that I work with. He said that it was one of the best valued Cabernet Sauvignons in the store so naturally I had to give it a shot. Honestly, he wasn't far from the truth. If this Cab had Napa Valley on the label instead of Alexander Valley it would be priced higher and be placed in the locked viewing case. I am starting to see a trend in exceptional value coming from Alexander Valley. Just over the mountain from upper Napa Valley, it produces some fantastic Cab and Chardonnay that compete well against its more famous neighbor.

Color: Rich, dark red-purple, aided by the 6% Petite Verdot included in the wine. Had nice legs and the edges are still crisp with no signs of early aging.

Nose: Cherry, and dark plums come to mind with a herbacious potpourri character. The wine opens up in the glass to cedar, clove and licorice type aromas and a hint of damp earth.

Palate: Nice even smoothness throughout the palate. Soft tannins and sweet oak give the wine a full body with more spice on the finish.

Overall: Great wine. Try it with the heavier meat dishes. I give it an A