The 2005 The Galvo Garage is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Opaque purple-colored, it presents aromas of cedar, spice box, mineral, cassis, and black cherry. Structured, dense, and savory, this firm effort will evolve for several years and offer food for thought from 2012 to 2025. D’Arenberg has been owned and operated by the Osborn family since its inception in 1912. The portfolio, with a focus on the Rhone varieties, is wide ranging and value-oriented from top to bottom. The winery produces a bevy of value priced reds and whites that were reviewed in Issue 178. They should not be overlooked. At the higher end of the portfolio there is one white wine on which to report.Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.darenberg.com.au

At 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, with small amounts of Merlot, Cab Franc and Petit Verdot, this drinks like a Cab, combining ripe cassis and chocolate notes with hints of mint, brown sugar and cinnamon. It’s full-bodied and a bit chewy in texture, which should serve it well through at least 2015.——J.C.(5/1/2009)—— 91