Rich and meaty, with a dense, gutsy core of loamy earth, dried herb and berry, and tobacco. Firm and structured, harboring compact mountain-grown fruit that will reward cellaring. Best from 2014 through 2024. 3,152 cases made. –JL

You can taste the sun in this elaborately ripe Cabernet. It blasts off in an eruption of blackberries and cherries that are so powerful, they veer into the liqueur versions of these fruits. Despite potent mountain tannins, it’s drinkable now, and will pair just fine with a great steak, simply grilled, salted and peppered. ——S.H.(12/1/2011)—— 91

A reasonably decent value in Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is Terra Valentine’s 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon. Licorice, forest floor, roasted herbs, black currants, and damp forest notes make for a complex set of aromatics. The wine is solid, medium-bodied, and spicy, with light tannin in the finish. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. These are the most impressive wines I have tasted to date from Terra Valentine.Tel. (707) 967-8340