The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Dead Fred Vineyard, an homage to a long-deceased cat, exhibits a dense ruby/purple color in addition to plenty of cedar, underbrush, and black currant aromas. Medium to full-bodied and slightly tannic, but well-endowed, pure, and impressively constituted, this wine requires 2-3 years of cellaring, and should keep for 15+. Mia Klein’s proprietary blends, dedicated to her mother, are all blends of Bordeaux varietals.Tel. (707) 258-8119; Fax (707) 258-8132

Exorbitantly fruity, almost undrinkable because it’s so strong in blackberries, cherries, currants and cocoa. The fruit strength seems to accentuate the smoky oak. But it’s balanced in terms of acidity, tannins and dryness. Desperately needs a few years. Better after 2012.——S.H.(12/31/2009)—— 90