1 | Wine | Page 344

"A deep ruby red, this seductive Cab shows classic Cabernet Sauvignon aromas of spice and sage followed by a mix of blueberries and blackberries with fresh raspberry notes. With a nice balance of acid and well integrated tannins, this wine is smooth, supple and sleek in the mouth: it is well balanced across the palate showcasing flavors of dark fruit, currants and hints of mineral and anise."

"Deep red. Highly perfumed aromas of cherry, raspberry and baking spices, plus a hint of mocha. Sappy and seamless in texture, with very good depth and clarity to its spicy red fruit flavors. Fine-grained tannins come on late and add shape to the long, penetrating, spice-dominated finish. Pretty tasty right now but this elegant wine's balance bodes well for aging."

"As outstanding as all the Abreu wines are, if I had to choose one that stands apart from the others it would be Thorevilos. The 2008 Thorevilos is the most complete and deeply satisfying of Abreu’s 2008s because the balance of fruit and structure is so impeccable. The 2008 literally explodes onto the palate with masses of dark fruit, tar, licorice and smoke. There is a fleshiness and depth of the fruit here that separates the Thorevilos from the other 2008s. Layers of fruit build towards the massive, masculine finish."

"This is a ripe and moderately toasty white, exhibiting flavors of creamy fig, pear and brioche, followed by a lush finish that shows a lingering note of hazelnut."

"The 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva is gorgeous, especially for a vintage that was not easy. Black cherries, mint, licorice and tobacco are supported by firm yet well-integrated tannins and lively acidity, both of which should allow the wine to age gracefully for a number of years. The 2008 could still use another year or two to soften, but it is gorgeous, even today."

"Bright ruby-red. High-pitched aromas of black raspberry and Asian spices, with a subtle smoky quality. Zesty and precise, with tangy red and dark berry flavors that show very good focus and pick up a touch of allspice with air. Closes sweet and long, with no obvious tannins and very good clarity."

"Those of you who have followed our Cain Cuvée know that it is not your typical Napa red wine; no big, inky, oaky blockbuster here. Our Cuvée is intended to sit lightly, refreshingly (dare I write, lovingly?) on your palate. There is all the fruit that you could want, but the Cain Cuvée is not fruit juice. It is, most assuredly, fine wine for serious wine-lovers who value complexity, balance and finish. The Cain Cuvée is for those who know that wine doesn’t have to be big to be good."