2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Wine between $10 and $25

Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2009 Rutherford Cabernet spent 14 months in a combination 50% French oak, 30% American oak, and 30% Hungarian oak, 40% new barrels and 60% used. Although drinking beautifully right now, this wine has the potential to age gracefully for several years.

This is a splendid rendition of Chateau Ste. Michelle's mainstay Cabernet, rich and round, with a sophisticated mix of grapes, including Malbec, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot and Syrah. Dark fruit flavors of black cherry and cassis create a lush center, and the wine is more evolved and smoother, with less obvious oak and barrel flavor, than the pricier Cabs from Ste. Michelle.

A real beauty with graphite, minerality and rich, clean, exciting berry fruit and controlled oak aromas. Very pure and stylish Cabernet Sauvignon with fat but balanced cassis and sweet berry flavors. Big tannins lend structure and framework; young like a baby now; will be better and more evolved come fall, winter and over the next few years.

Deep garnet color. A rich bouquet of dark cherry, cocoa, clove, plum, tobacco and toasted oak, with delicate notes of coffee and truffle. Layered and complex. Rich and full on the palate with a supple mouthfeel and opulent layers of plum, cherry, anise, and mocha. Smooth and concentrated, the wine exhibits richly woven texture with dark, dense fruit on the long finish.