Sterling Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2000 ($24)
I have nice memories of visiting Sterling when I was in college back in the 1981-82. Not only were the commanding views of the Napa Valley beautiful, but the gondola ride didn’t cost much (or anything, if memory serves). Somewhere in the later 1980’s, when Sterling became another brand under the Seagram’s line, I drifted away from drinking their wines. I don’t recall any bad wines, they just didn’t seem to stand out anymore. So when I received this bottle from a friend a few years back, it went into a bin waiting for the friend to return. They are back in town this week, so the bottle was enjoyed with grilled shish kabobs. I’ll have to give some of the other Sterling wines a try again soon.
Dark ruby in color with aromas of blackberry, plum and eucalyptus. Black currant and plum fruit with some spice and very fine tannins. Drinking very well now with plenty of fruit that will remain for a few more years. Delicious and a great value if you can find it.
13.5% ABV
Natural cork closure
Score: 9/10