Very deep, bright ruby-red. Slightly high-toned, expressive aromas of black cherry, red currant, cedar and tobacco. Dense, thick and sweet; rounder and more open-knit today than the Vintner Select Merlot, with noteworthy breadth to the flavors of redcurrant, dark chocolate, cedar and sexy herbs. Finishes with a substantial tongue-dusting of tannins that are supported by the wine's mid-palate sweetness.

Another juicy, expressive wine, the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Vintner's Select shows considerably more textural roundness and depth than the straight Cabernet bottling. Plush, round and deep, the 2009 covers every inch of the palate with layers of fruit. Hints of smoke, menthol, tar and graphite add gravitas on the dark, brooding finish.

Nicely built, with a firm tannic framework wrapped around dry currant, fresh earth, anise and cedar flavors, ending with red and black licorice notes and a dash of espresso. Best from 2013 through 2024. 646 cases made