Inland Empire Wine-Budget Conscious California Sampler

Saturday August 16, 2008 … NapaCabs.com

Feeling the pinch? No need to gas up the car, … join us in touring California wine country while sampling a flight of classic California varietals all under $20.00. These wines are ideal for wine enthusiasts planning or experiencing extended “Staycations”.

Hanna 2007 Sauvignon Blanc Slusser Road Vineyard $13.95

∑ Russian River Valley

W&S 92pts. - The wine emphasizes fruit in the aromas and mid palate with a finish broadened by malolactic fermentation. Its fresh and quaffable with distinctive lime, grass and a murmur of basil. (13.8%)

Byron 2006 Chardonnay $19.95

∑ Santa Maria Valley

Staying true to the consistent nature of Chardonnay from this cool coastal appellation, Byrons Chardonnay combines vibrant fruit character with a rich texture and a silky finish. Aromas of orange blossom, Anjou pear and hazelnut are accented by hints of mineral and toasty oak. On the palate, the wine is well balanced with traces of peach, mandarin orange and toasty brown spice with along, lingering finish. (14.2%) Although the 2006 vintage has yet to be rated, the 2005 vintage received a 93 point score from the Wine Advocate.

Sebastiani 2006 Pinot Noir $14.95

∑ Sonoma Coast

This wine has a beautiful medium to dark garnet color with dried cherry, strawberry compote, vanilla and mocha aromatics. The flavor is balanced between juicy, cherry like fruit and toasted oak. This Pinot has finesse and finishes with lively acidity, firm tannins and well-integrated oak. (13.5%)

Roshambo 2005 Zinfandel The Reverend $16.95

∑ Dry Creek Valley

WE 92pts. Why is this wine the reverend? Just like an old fire and brimstone sermon, it starts easy and lures you in with scents of Christmas spices. And then it kicks up the volume with an explosion of juicy red and black berries, plums and chocolate. To finish you are called up to the altar to be healed by a smack to the forehead of spicy, smooth tannins. (14.8%)

Wente 2005 Merlot Estate Grown Sandstone $11.95

∑ Arroyo Seco Monterey

Aromas of herbal tea, licorice and blackberry are accentuated by hints of spice and perfume. On the mouth, the wine is full bodied, but with a smooth mid-palate that showcases flavors of cherry and truffles alongside tobacco undertones. (13.5%)

Louis M. Martini 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve $16.95

∑ Napa Valley

Varietal Content: 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 0.5% Merlot, 0.25% Cabernet Franc, 0.6% Petite Verdot, 4% Petite Sirah. The 2005 Louis M. Martini Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon delivers the highest quality from premium Napa Valley vineyards. This is America's number one Cabernet Saugivnon in its price range. (14.2%)