2006 Alpha Omega Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits straightforward red and black currant fruit intermixed with hints of damp earth, spice box, and new oak. Well-made and approachable, it should evolve for a decade or more. What it, as well as its siblings, lacks is a singularity, a distinctive personality, and that ethereal complexity that makes certain wines stand out. I had expected these offerings to be more impressive based on the seemingly unlimited investments behind the wines, the new winemaking facility, and the employment of the super-star consultant, Michel Rolland. The wines are certainly very good, in fact some are outstanding, so perhaps it is too soon to know for sure as Alpha Omega has only produced a handful of vintages. There are four separate reds produced, and while I can understand the need for a cuvee from the Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard as well as a luxury proprietary offering, the other two wines seem more similar than dissimilar. Tel. (707) 963-9999; Fax (707) 963-9998