A rich, full nose begins with cherry and chocolate over hugely coffee underpinnings for a velvety effect. Promises made by the aroma are fulfilled by a big, beautifully chocolaty mouth-feel. Dense flavors of chocolate and coffee predominate, effectively lightened and balanced by slightly spicy tannins on the finish. With more time and exposure, vanilla flavors also come through on a finish pleasantly lacking in heat. This would be a natural with anything involving wild mushrooms: rich enough to handle intense earthy flavors but smooth enough not to overwhelm. Lovely.
WHO: Sinclair Estate Vineyards
WHAT: Cabernet sauvignon
WHERE: Walla Walla, Washington
WHEN: 2007
HOW MUCH: $45
