Even better is the 2008 Vintner’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. It is made from 100% estate fruit with 70% coming from Sonoma and 30% from Napa. A blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot, this serious Cabernet exhibits a deep ruby/purple-tinged hue as well as notes of cedar, charcoal, black cherries, black currants, licorice and herbs. Medium-bodied and rich with silky tannins and surprisingly abundant richness and extract, it should drink nicely for 5-6 years, perhaps longer. Kendall-Jackson enjoys a well-deserved reputation for over-delivering quality vis a vis price for its wines.Tel. (800) 769-3649; www.kj.com

A wonderfully good wine, especially at this price. Easily the best K-J Vintner’s Reserve ever. Inky black, full-bodied and dry, it houses rich, complex blackberry, plum and smoky oak flavors, wrapped into finely ground, firm tannins. Run, don’t walk, to find this affordable beauty. ——S.H.(5/1/2011)—— 92