TWENTY ROWS CABERNET SAUVIGNON - 2003

Twenty Rows has a simple slogan: Making Wines You Can Drink Everyday. I can't think of a better way to describe what this winery has been able to achieve with its 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon. California Cabs have outpriced themselves over the last few years and it is becoming increasingly difficult to find good Cabernet from Napa that won't set you back $40 or more per bottle. The truth is that most of these bottles just aren't worth the price. It is equally hard to find good Cabs on the lower end. Most value Cabernets just don't have the structure, flavors, or polish that make them enjoyable. They tend to be thin wines with lots of "alcohol burn."

My response to the California Cab price inflation has been to look for inexpensive alternatives elsewhere like selections from Washington State or France. However, when I heard good things about Twenty Rows, a low-priced $15 Cabernet from Napa, I couldn't wait to try it.

TASTING NOTES:

77% Cabernet with a bit of Merlot, Malbec and Petite Sirah mixed in. This wine exhibits aromas of vanilla and blueberry. It is a powerful wine with over-the-top licorice, cassis, and blackberry flavors. Beautiful dark purple in color, huge body, excellent acidity with sleek, lush tannins, and a finish that keeps going and going like the Energizer bunny.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

92 PTS
I was blown away by this wine. For $15, this is the best value Cabernet I've ever tasted. I have not found any equivalents in this price range out there. This is about as good as it gets. This would be a fun wine to blind taste along side much more expensive California Cabernets. Highly recommend. You can order directly from the winery site at Twenty Rows.