Everyone loves a good Cab Sav, or they should! We will sample three from California:

Bonanza, Napa Valley — A non-vintage Cab from the Wagner family. The Wagners come from a long line of grape growers and winemakers, with a history in Napa Valley dating back to the 1850s. Chuck Wagner founded Caymus Vineyards in Napa Valley nearly 50 years ago. Bonanza is a reflection of the bonanza of the state of California with the ongoing exploration and discovery of land where Cabernet can be farmed successfully. Aromas of currant and ripe blackberry, with notes of spice, mocha and smoke. Full bodied on the palate with medium acidity, ripe fruit and mocha, very smooth on the finish. Enjoy with a marinated flank steak. This wine is medium ruby-red; it opens with scents of currants and dried roses, grape pomace, and freshly tilled soil. The nose is nuanced with toasty oak imparting a subtle smoked meat character. Flavors of blueberries and blackberries mix with the warmth of vanilla and toasted bread. Silky tannins and striking smoothness. Pair with grilled filet mignon, venison, and aged Vermont Cheddar. 14.6% ABV. $23.99/$8

Brady Vineyard 2018, Paso Robles — Nestled in the Estrella Valley, Brady Vineyard is just far enough inland from the Pacific Ocean to build heat daily, but still close enough to enjoy the nightly cooling of maritime breezes. Because of the inherent poverty of the site, yields are limited to a scant 4 tons per acre, boosting intensity and concentration from the vines. This results in rich, fully-ripened grapes, ideal for producing big and bold Paso Robles red wines. This Cab IS big and bold, featuring deep crimson color and aromas reminiscent of blackberry, black currant and cassis with subtle notes of roasted vanilla and spice. On tasting, it shows silky texture and juicy berry and bramble flavors that echo the aromas. Luscious and full-bodied with balancing gentle acidity and just a hint of velvety oak that lengthens the finish. Enjoy by itself, or with smoked or roasted meats, sharp cheeses and with dishes with rich flavorful sauces. 15% ABV. Rating: 91, Wine Enthusiast. $27.99/$9

J Lohr Hilltop 2019, Paso Robles — Four decades ago, the California Central Coast had not yet emerged as one of North America’s world-class winegrowing regions. With little history or viticultural precedent, planting on the Central Coast was a gamble. One of a handful of early pioneers, Jerry Lohr was among the first to realize the inherent potential of Monterey and Paso Robles for producing high- quality grapes and superb wines. This Cab is dark in color with aromas of blackberry, black currant, and toasted pastry crust. Dense and soft on the palate, with layers of black and red currants, which leaves a bright finish. Bright fruit upon release, with the structure to age comfortably for 8 to 12 years. Delicious with rosemary-seasoned ribeye and garlic-roasted potatoes with parsnips and fennel. 99% Cab Sav, 0.7% Petit Verdot, 0.3% Malbec. 15.1% ABV. Rating: 93, Wine Enthusiast (2018). $34.99/$12

St. Lucio’s Gourmet and Cheese is open inside the store for your cheese needs and is bringing in some amazing new cheeses every week! Feel free to bring snacks/dinner with you, but please dispose of your own trash (there is a trash can at the back entrance).

See you Friday!