2011 Denner Cabernet Sauvignon

One of the highlights in this range, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is a drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Blackberry jam, cassis, grilled herbs, menthol and smoke all jump from the glass. The juicy, exuberant fruit is pure Paso, while the aromatic and savory notes are those from a long, cool growing season. A hint of dark spices from the 80% new oak lingers on the finish. Readers will have a hard time finding a California Cabernet Sauvignon that delivers this much quality and pure pleasure for the money. In 2011, winemaker Anthony Young decided to bottle one lot of his Mother of Exiles Cabernet Sauvignon on its own, which turned out to be a brilliant decision. What a gorgeous wine this is.