The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is purple-colored with aromas of pain grille, pencil lead, earth notes, black currant, and blackberry. On the palate the wine is smooth textured with a solid core of spicy black fruits and good balance with enough structure for 1-2 years of further development. The finish is long and fruit-filled. Drink this excellent Cabernet from 2010 to 2017. Novelty Hill is owned by venture capitalist Tom Alberg. He also owns Stillwater Creek Vineyard located on the Royal Slope of the Frenchman Hills which was planted in 2000. Last year the winery moved into its impressive new building in Woodinville. In addition to sharing the space with Januik Winery, Alberg also employs Mike Januik as winemaker for Novelty Hill. Tel. (425) 481-8317; www.noveltyhillwines.com

This Bordeaux blend brings expressive, dark, tannic, coffee/toasty flavors to the party. The juice is dark and tangy, tight and compact, but fully ripe and balanced nicely against the tannins and natural acidity. The flavors are layered and seamless, rather than floating along the top of the wine and relying on sugar and oak to fill in where the fruit is lacking. This should be your everyday go-to bottle for Cabernet.——P.G.(12/1/2008)—— 90