The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Canoe Ridge Estate was sourced from vines planted in 1991. Purple-colored, it sports an alluring nose of cedar, cinnamon, allspice, violets, black currant, and blackberry. Layered, bordering on opulent, this full-flavored Cabernet has excellent density, savory flavors, ripe tannins, and plenty of length. It will offer a drinking window extending from 2011 to 2021. Chateau Ste. Michelle continues to demonstrate that a winery can be large and quality-oriented at the same time. Their current collection is as good as or better than anything it has done in the past. Tel. (425) 415-3300; www.ste-michelle.com

Winemaker Bob Bertheau says his goal is to produce a softer mouthfeel in his reds, and the Canoe Ridge estate provides the perfect opportunity to do so. This is a tight, nicely balanced mix of black cherry, blackberry, light herb and a whiff of smoke, firm and smooth in the mouth, with some dark chocolate in the finish. Good concentration and varietal character. ——P.G.(12/1/2009)—— 90