($60): Often times Cabernet-blended wines show more complexity than wines made from any of the single Bordeaux varieties.  The flavor profile of Merlot or Cabernet Franc, in particular, seems to be an especially well-suited foil to Cabernet.  But in this case, Rodney Strong’s Symmetry–a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (73%), Merlot (15%), Cabernet Franc (4%) and Malbec (3%)–takes a back seat to their excellent Alexander Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.  The Symmetry has ripeness, succulence and black fruit intensity characteristic of Strong’s wines, but the alcohol shows and the heat in the finish detracts from the otherwise luscious array of dark fruits and smoky nuances. 86 Michael Apstein Sep 16, 2008