We liked the first round of "Big Dog" wine night so much, we went back for round two. No one themed this as fat Cab night, but we proudly presented our brown bags and unmarked decanters, ready to unleash these hounds into the ring.
I. Nickel and Nickel - Sullenger Vineyard (unsure on vintage)
Large and well structured. Green pepper on the nose along with black currant and a bit of cigar box. Deep dark red color and taste to match. Finish is a bit short, with some tart tannin, but overall well done. This needs time in the cellar, but it will be very tasty in a few years.
T-Scale 91 - not cheap as you might expect - $73-$90
II. Alpha Omega ERA - 2008
Big big one here, as well it should be at this price point. I tasted this from the barrel at the winery in August and it is showing oh so well now in the bottle. Do decant this for an hour or more prior to showing it as the big tannin and pepper notes will mellow. Deep dark red color with heavy nose of rich soil, green peppers, and currant. The tannin feels mellow for this age but will only get better with a few more years. This is one of my top American Cab-based wines, but the price reflects a dare-to-dream situation.
T-Scale 94 - I'm almost afraid to tell you... it's $150 or more per bottle.
III. Woodward Canyon Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon - 1999
A real sleeper here, leave it to Phil to dig one up from his cellar that has sufficient age on it to judge fairly. This is a perfect example of what a large-bodied and well-structured Cab will do with adequate aging - it mellows into greatness. I read up on earlier reviews and complaints included stuff tannins and over-oakiness. I assure you that those traits are gone, replaced by smooth blackberry jam and ripe cherries. Super great finish makes this an aged Cab that's very ready now.
T-Scale 93 - probably a good deal at release, but now appreciated all the way up to $60-$75 if you can find it. This is what wine spectating is all about.
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