2 Sonoma Cabs

[wondersofwine]

1999 Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County, CA (C.S. and Merlot blend)
half bottle for $12.99, possibly in DC where wine prices tend to be higher than most places
Dark purple with some deep crimson at the rim. Basically opaque. Some plum fruit, probably from the Merlot in the blend.
Pretty label in burgundy and gold with a sailboat (got your attention KC?) I'm a sucker for sailboats.

2001 Simi Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, cA
13.5% alcohol $15.99 at Vintage Wines, San Diego several years ago

Pretty nearly the same dark purple-black with dark crimson rim as the Dry Creek Vineyard wine. Less mellow and smooth than the first one but at the same time bigger, more intense and longer finish.
Some chewiness in the mouth--some tannins despite the tannin management espoused by the winemaker. Viscous texture.
More mellow on the second and third evenings. Good fruit and good balance. I would score in the upper 80's as very good. A good bargain too at about $16 before taxes.