2005 TOR Cabernet Sauvignon Mast-Cimarossa

Good deep red. High-toned aromas of cherry liqueur, licorice and herbs, lifted by a piquant note of orange peel. Supple but juicy, with an herbal pungency and bright acids giving the middle palate excellent definition and verve. Finishes firmly tannic and persistent, with flavors of spicy red berries, graphite and minerals.

Offering up notes of blueberries, black raspberries, and currants in a soft, Pomerol-like style, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Mast-Cimarossa possesses sweet tannins, adequate acidity, and a plush texture as well as finish. Drink it over the next 10-12 years. Tor Kenward and his winemaker, Jeff Ames, have produced some breakthrough efforts in 2005 and 2006. A longtime executive at Beringer as well as a meticulous wine connoisseur who knows great wine as well as anybody, Kenward is carving out a superb reputation for wine quality. His total production is just under 2,500 cases, and the best way for consumers to purchase his wines is through the winery’s mailing list. His Chardonnays are superb. Kenward’s knowledge of northern California viticulture and vineyard sites has put him in the position to get great fruit, which has been translated into artisinal, hand-crafted wines. (Not yet released) Tel. (707) 963-3100; Fax (707) 963-3114

Medium ruby-red. Brooding aromas of black fruits, licorice and menthol. Sweet, dense, thick and powerful, with a savory character and excellent depth to its fruit. This is simultaneously juicy and plush, with a faint herbal element adding complexity and leavening the wine's chocolatey sweetness. Bright acids and sweet tannins give this a suave finish.