2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr Crane Vineyard

Readers seeking a liqueur of black currants in a Cabernet-based wine should check out the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Crane Vineyard (15.2% alcohol). A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Merlot, it boasts fabulous texture as well as richness. Dense and full-bodied, it will age effortlessly for 15+ years. I admire what Les Behrens, Bob Hitchcock, their wives, friends, and lunatic dog are doing at their winery and cellars on the top of Spring Mountain. They are obsessed fanatics who make wine with no compromises ... obviously my kind of people. Tel. 707-963-1774; Fax 707-963-8206

Readers seeking a liqueur of black currants in a Cabernet-based wine should check out the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Crane Vineyard (15.2% alcohol). A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Merlot, it boasts fabulous texture as well as richness. Dense and full-bodied, it will age effortlessly for 15+ years. Dec 2003, www.robertparker.com

(includes a bit of cabernet franc) Deep, bright ruby. Pungent spices, sarsaparilla and licorice lift the aroma of cassis. Intense, muscular wine, with a flavor of blackberry liqueur. Offers unmistakable small-berry intensity and structure but comes across as a bit hard-edged today (there's more cabernet franc in the 2002 version of this wine, notes Les Behrens). Will this soften up during its final months in barrel?