2010 United States Wine between $25 and $50

Sleek and slender, but fleshy enough to deliver cinnamon-accented cherry flavors, showing a hint of coffee as the finish lingers. Deftly balanced. Drink now through 2017. -- 90 points, Wine Spectator

Comprised of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, our Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted from grapes grown on our estate hillside vineyards (30%) in conjunction with grapes from other mature, high-quality, low-yielding Napa Valley Cabernet vineyards located on the valley floor. We've found the resulting blend to produce a wine that displays a broad spectrum of aromas, flavors, and textures that Cabernet can show in the Napa Valley.

A big, mouth filling wine, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, shows the personality of the vintage in its intense fruit. There is plenty of underlying structure in this deep, resonant Cabernet Sauvignon. Mint, flowers and sweet red berries are some of the nuances that are woven into the finish. This is far from an easygoing Napa Cabernet. Although delicious today, it should drink well for a number of years. Another year or so in bottle should help the elements come together even more fully. The 2010 is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.

Open and immediately accessible, this is fragrant and gently floral, with clearly defined varietal character. It opens beautifully into an elegant, aromatic and crisply structured wine, with excellent length.

Vibrant acidity is the defining character of both the 2010 vintage and this beautiful wine. Bright flavors of citrus and stone fruit are layered over a taut and structured frame that is underscored by touches of mineral and flint. Like most wines of this type, the 2010 Chardonnay draws its complexity and mouthfeel from delicate contact with its primary fermentation lees rather than from extended time in oak barrels. These elements combine to create the perfect match to a dozen briny oysters or, just maybe, a second refreshing glass.

Girard's 2010 Petite Sirah is an absolutely beautiful bottle of wine. Sweet black currants, spices, violets, asphalt and grilled herbs all take shape in this mid-weight, yet luscious red. This is a decidedly refined, plush Petite Syrah with lovely balance, but little of the weight or firmness usually associated with the grape, which can be good or bad, depending on one's point of view. The wine's balance, however, is beyond reproach. This is a great showing from Girard. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.

The 2010 Sauvignon Blanc caresses the palate with melon, juicy peaches and flowers along with plenty of green, grassy varietal notes. This soft Sauvignon is best enjoyed over the next year or two. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2013.