6/19/2013 - bhougland wrote:

One year later, opened second bottle. Still, mixed feelings on this one. For sure, not your typical '05 Oakville Cab. Still bright and acidic, and just not a well-integrated or structured Cab. Lacks depth. Certainly drinkable, just short of expectations. I reckon it's in line with the cost ($26). Maybe let it breathe, and come back to it.

6/12/2012 - bhougland Likes this wine:

When first opened bottle, and let it breathe for 20-30 minutes, very disappointed. Way too hot, over acidic. Vacuvin'd it off, stowed, and tasted again nearly 2 weeks later. Much better after mellowing out. Now nose isn't all alcohol, but weakness nonetheless. Smooth, slight white pepper, cassis. Drinkable, but short of expectations.

4/14/2012 - bhougland wrote:

Better than expected.

4/19/2012 - bhougland wrote:

Underwhelming, by far. Past it's prime.

4/19/2012 - bhougland wrote:

Peculiar. Not entirely pleasant, but not wretched either.

10/29/2011 - bhougland Likes this wine:

Enjoyed at Roy's in Anaheim. Brought in, no corkage fee charged. After a bevy of average cabs, syrahs, zins, etc., it was very satisfying to enjoy a real "Napa" styled cabernet sauvignon.

Full-bodied, well integrated, dark fruit and chocolate-tobacco, firm but elegant structure. Smooth and polished, with pleasant, lingering finish. Both my wife and I very much enjoyed this bottle.

10/11/2011 - bhougland wrote:

Ordered with dinner at the Capitol Grille in Chicago. Budget priced @ $60, considering the wine menu. Most wines above and below this price point were your typical garden variety, grocery store cabs. Was very surprised at drinkability and richness of this cab. Opened up after about 20 min. Would purchase again.

9/27/2009 - bhougland wrote:

Smooth, fruit, classy but not boring.