1993 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley

In my October tasting both 1993 Cabernets were more tannic and closed than the 1992s. The 1993 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley offers up a whiff of herbs in its tight nose, followed by chocolatey, spicy, black-cherry, and cassis flavors, an exotic, medium to full-bodied, concentrated palate, and moderate tannin in the lusty finish. It does not possess the definition and structure of the Napa cuvee, but it is more forward and fleshy. These All-American Cabernet Sauvignons continue to be "can't miss" propositions with the majority of Cabernet lovers. (release date, 8/97) One of America's favorite Cabernet Sauvignon producers, Silver Oak Cellars produces over 40,000 cases of their Alexander Valley and Napa Valley cuvees. As I have said so many times in the past, it is hard to dislike a Silver Oak Cabernet as they are ripe, deliciously well-oaked, soft, plump, multi-layered, and silky. Recent vintages have all been strong efforts. It will be interesting to continue to report on their next 10-20 years of evolution. Tel. (707) 857-3562; Fax (707) 857-3135