Franciscan Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Berries on the nose

Dry and elegant on the palate

Finishes with more fruit and toasty oak characteristics, accompanied by moderate tannins

There is a nice, dry quality about this wine. It has that elegance and balance similar to what is found in many red Bordeaux, but is less common in California. It's a nice alternative to the big, powerful Napa Valley Cab's when you're looking for something more subtle. Don't get me wrong, though, it's still a fruit-forward and modern-style Cab.

I see it on a lot of steakhouse wine lists, and recommend this as a lower-priced alternative to the big name wines. Recently, at a Morton's, I paid $50 a bottle. Raise a glass!