2005 Sbragia Andolsen Cabernet

Ed Sbragia has long been one of my favorites via his work at chief winemaker at Beringer in creating memorable Private Reserve Chardonnays and Cabernets. The 1980 Chard Reserve is one of the first great wines I had and appreciated as such. There has been a Sbragia Chard reserve for maybe 20 years now and I always love it. Sbragia purchased some vineyard land and is now devoting much of his time to Sbragia Family Vineyards with chardonnay and cabernet.

So tonight, at a DC power spot restaurant with decent but not particularly noteworthy food, had the 2005 cabernet. This was really too young at this point with prominent drying tannins for the first 30 minutes and a somewhat shy nose. With more air, the wine became more complex on the nose and palate. Prominent initially were blueberry, leather, coffee/cocoa/mocha. With airing, a violet and woodsy cedar/pine element joined the earlier components, nose opened, and tannins softened with a vanilla and toasted oaky wood taste substantial on the palate. I'd say this one will be best from 2011-18. I'd give it 92+. Absolutely delightful. As we see, Parker gives it a longer life than me.

Robt Parker: 91 points. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Andolsen may be one of the finest Dry Creek Cabernets I have ever tasted. Aromas of graphite, blueberries, blackberries, spring flowers, and background toasty oak are followed by a wine with terrific purity, medium to full body, wonderful sweetness, and a silky finish that lasts for 40+ seconds. Drink this superb value over the next 15 years.

Ed Sbragia, the long-time and highly-esteemed winemaker at Beringer, also has his own family operation where he produces 5,000 plus cases of wine, primarily top-notch Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.