2006 Behrens Family Erna Schein Cabernet Sauvignon Spare Me

Composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon and 17% Merlot, the 380-case cuvee of 2006 Spare Me possesses a dense ruby/purple hue, aromas of underbrush, black cherries, black currants, smoke, and background wood, medium to full body, and an elegant style. It represents a California version of a ripe St.-Emilion. It, too, should last for a decade or more. Known as Behrens and Hitchcock until the departure of Bob Hitchcock, this artisinal winery on the top of Spring Mountain has changed its name to Erna Schein. The proprietors, Les and Lisa Behrens, continue to fine tune an intriguing portfolio of wines. Because of disappointing results from synthetic closures, they have now gone back to traditional cork. Lisa is widely regarded as one of Napa’s most capable viticulturists, and appears to have a knack for finding forgotten vineyard treasures. In addition to the name change, the Behrens seem to be moving away from varietal names, using instead a series of colorful, often provocative labels. All the following wines are flavorful, exuberant, full-bodied offerings made with indigenous yeasts, and are bottled unfined and unfiltered. They represent true low-tech wines. Tel. (707) 963-1774; Fax (707) 963-8206