Though the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon was too green to be recommended (there is no 2003 Reserve bottling), the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve “One” (1200 six-packs) is excellent (Abbot and the Harrisons will only be producing a reserve wine in the best years, so they are numbering them). This wine, which includes 4% Merlot in the blend, reveals a sublime nose of sweet spices, cassis, and blackberries. Aged entirely in new French oak, this effort displays a structured character filled with black fruits, herbs, and slight notes of green vegetables. Medium-bodied and elegant, it is well-balanced and sports a suave finish with ripe tannin. Drink it over the next 6-7 years.
Tel. (509) 526-7400; www.abeja.net