On the nose, this wine is open and likable, with plump plums and berries, olives, mint and oak spice. It's less appealing and harmonious in the mouth, however, where acidity is biting and tannins astringent and oak derived. Nevertheless, there's been some effort here to make this an easy-drinking and not overblown bottling of Cab, and it shows.

There's an appealing juiciness to the berry, currant and framboise flavors of this red, with spice, black tea and nutmeglike flavors emerging on the finish, where the tannins firm up. Drink now. 15,000 cases made, 5,000 cases imported.