1 | Wine | $10 to $20, Unrated, 2009

"Simi 2009 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon follows up on its deep, dark garnet color with lifted, pretty aromas of clove, cinnamon, hints of cedar, mint chocolate, and toasty oak notes that beautifully frame dark fruit. Compelling flavors of cassis, blackberry, and plum along with black pepper, cedar, and clove keep this dark and somewhat brooding wine from being too serious. This medium-to full-bodied Alexander Valley Cabernet will bring out the best in roasted mushroom and wild nettle pesto pizza, or charcoal-grilled beef carpaccio with asiago-onion salad."

"This elegant and medium-bodied wine offers aromas of Cherry and herbal spice. On the palate the wine gives complex layers of cinnamon, spice, black cherry, sweet vanilla oak and floral notes, with a long velvety finish. Smooth with a silky texture and mild tannins, this versatile wine pairs well with lamb, chicken, veal, salmon and light pasta dishes."

"Intense aromas of raspberry and plum with a hint of dried cherries. Exceptional mouthfeel, with concentrated flavors of red fruit. Plush tannins confer the wine a rich finish; with a hint of cocoa, caramel, and dry currants."

"Inviting aromas of cherry, wild strawberry, and ripe plum are interwoven with notes of sage and blueberry. Hints of anise and clove give added complexity. Rich, elegant and well structured, the palate shows a velvet texture with smooth mouthfeel and good balance. Layered with full flavors of ripe plums, cherries, tobacco, and sweet notes of vanilla, the finish lingers with rich, dark fruit flavors."