Rodney Strong, Alexander Valley (Sonoma County, California) Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2005

($50): Although this concentrated style of Cabernet emphasizes ripe primary fruit, it is not overdone or over-extracted.  Mellow tannins complement the sweet succulent fruit.  At this stage, it lacks complexity, but since it is balanced, additional flavors will likely emerge over time, so there’s rush.  That said, its lushness makes it engaging now. 89 Michael Apstein Aug 5, 2008