1993 Dehlinger Cabernet Sauvignon Estate

The opaque purple-colored, dense, chewy, full-bodied 1993 Cabernet Sauvignon is more tannic and structured when tasted next to the 1994 and 1995. Although lacking some of the 1994's and 1995's velvety texture, it remains a well-made, large-scaled, well-endowed Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next two decades. The Cabernet Sauvignons are made in small quantities (250 cases for the 1993 and 400-500 cases for the 1994 and 1995) and see one-third new oak casks. They are dense purple-colored, with ripe, sweet fruit, plenty of body, and 15-20 years of aging potential. It is hard to pick a favorite among the 1993, 1994, and 1995, although my instincts suggest the 1995 is going to ultimately emerge with a score several points higher than the 1993 or 1994. This winery has been producing some dazzling Cabernet Sauvignons and Cabernet/Merlot blends that would fare well against some of the most expensive proprietary reds of northern California. For obvious reasons, Dehlinger Winery garners most of its praise because of its Russian River Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, but the Cabernet and Cabernet/Merlot blend should not be ignored. As readers undoubtedly realize, $20-$25 does not buy too many great Cabernet Sauvignons or proprietary red wines in 1996, but it does at Dehlinger.