Owned by the same team that makes the Ernie Els wines, the Guardian Peak winery concentrates mainly on Rhone grapes. But it also produces this Cabernet Sauvignon, which is a ripely smooth wine, packed with dusty tannins and a ripe, jammy, densely fruity character that is very Australian in style. ——R.V.(11/1/2006)—— 89

Powerful spice, cigar, cinnamon and lead pencil join bright raspberry aromas in this assertive Cab from Ernie Els and Jean Engelbrecht. Nutty spice typifies the palate; buttery toast on the finish. A hearty, enjoyable wine that could age comfortably for five more years. ——S.K.(3/1/2007)—— 87