2005 Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon Zapata Vinyard

The 2005 Alta Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from three high elevation vineyards and aged for 18 months in 80% new French oak before bottling without fining or filtration. Purple-colored, it has an alluring nose of pain grille, pencil lead, spice box, black currant, and blackberry liqueur. This is followed by a medium to full-bodied, intense wine with superb depth of flavor, excellent concentration, and a firm finish. It will easily evolve for 3-5 years and offer prime drinking from 2012 to 2025. The Catena Zapata portfolio is stunning from entry-level to top-of-the-line. As an aside, during my visit to Catena-Zapata in April, 2008, I tasted many barrel samples of 2006s and 2007s. The components, particularly of the 2006s are astounding; the best is yet to come. Importer: Billington Imports, Springfield, VA; tel. (703) 455-4700; fax (703) 455-0450; www.billingtonwines.com

Grapes from Agrelo and Tupungato. Aged for 18 months with French oak . Introvert but convincing. Slightly austere, but richer than the average red Bordeaux! Tight, more oxygen needed? Very correct. (JR)

Bright ruby-red. Exotic spices perk up the aromas of cassis, dark raspberry, spicecake, chocolate and minerals. Sweet dark berry, spice, chocolate and leather flavors are nicely framed by bright, harmonious acidity, giving this graceful, fruit-driven cabernet excellent cut and life in the mouth. Densely packed but conveys a light touch. The very subtle back end features sneaky lingering sweetness and lovely perfume.