I always read "drink between now and .."

[Innkeeper]

Hi Rick, and welcome to the Wine Board. Most wine can be drunk right now. This includes almost all white and roses', and most reds. Don't buy a 2002 Beaujolais Nouveau as it tastes like dishwater this year, but do try a 2001 Beaujolais Villages or Cru Beaujolais, and lots of other reds.

Cabernet sauvignon can be made in many ways. That includes those that are ready to go on release, to those that take 15 to 18 years to mature. It has to do with the vintage, the ripeness, the localle, and the method. Other wines that have to be aged follow the same pattern. You have to know, through experiance, reading (including he labels), and consultation with your retailer and others.