2001 Wolf Blass CS

[hotwine]

This is one of those "value" Aussie offerings, for those not yet familiar with it. About $7.99 at Sam's, $10 or more anywhere else. Picked up one this morning and decided to open with leftover sirloin tonight. Poured half an hour before dinner, but that wasn't nearly long enough - bright fuit, but no varietal character, could be anything fresh off the boat. Now an hour after dinner and the Cab has finally resolved all doubt by asserting itself. Nose of inkwell and lead pencil with a whiff of blueberries, more on the palate with bruised purple fruit (overripe dewberries?) and a touch of mountain juniper and pine tar. What were those rum-soaked cigars we smoked in our teens? Catchin' a snort of those. Nice finish, better than most other $8 Cabs. Alcohol is 12.5%. Not a Napa aristocrat, but a good table staple.