1991 Madrona Ranch

Although virtually sold out, readers should know that the 1991 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a dark opaque/purple color, followed by a tight but promising nose of black fruits, licorice, Asian spices, and smoke. Full-bodied and extremely youthful, with plenty of tannin (sweet rather than astringent), and terrific length, this is a classic, beautifully balanced, intensely flavored wine. Give it another 3-4 years of cellaring and drink it over the subsequent 2 decades. In tasting through all of Abreu's commercially available wines, I was struck by how consistent in quality they are. The exceptional 1991 and 1992 have been followed by phenomenal wines in 1993, 1994, 1995, and 1996. Most of these wines are 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Cabernet Franc. The only exception is the 1995, which is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. The wines are worth owning; I am putting my money where my mouth is. Tel. (707) 963-7487.