2002 Chateau St. Jean Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon

[newsguy]

($12.99; 13.8%) that's correct: i got this bottle for $12.99. not sure why the dramatic drop in price. the '01 version sells from the winery at $27 per and my regular shop sold it earlier this year at $20. the '02 is a brilliant reddish-purple. the big nose has dark fruits (black cherry and blackberry predominantly), with cinnamon and wrapped in vanilla oak. similar big flavors, going to chocolate on the expanding finish. thick mouthfeel with little acidity and minimal superfine tannins. i don't think this is going to be much of an ager. this juicy wine should be at its best through 2008. 89 points, and at $15 and under, a great value.

[This message has been edited by newsguy (edited 11-10-2004).]

[wondersofwine]

Hmm. I'll have to see if it's available locally and at what price.

[californiagirl]

I thought I saw this at Sam's Club. Can't remember the price. I'll have to keep an eye out for it. Sounds great!

[wondersofwine]

(I had already posted when I realized that Newsguy was posting on the Sonoma C.S. and I am posting on the California C.S. I would expect the Sonoma to be somewhat higher in quality and price than the California brand.)

Found this at the grocery store for $12.99 (same price I paid a wine retailer for the 2002 Avalon Cabernet Sauvignon)at same price Newsguy paid. Nose of non-specific dark fruits. I was wondering if it had some Merlot blended in. Website shows that the 2001 Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon has 7% Cabernet Franc and 1% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot but I couldn't find any specifics on the California-designated Cabernet Sauvignon.
Attractive aroma. Velvety smooth texture. Flavors of dark-skinned plums and dark berries. More length, presence and better overall impression than the identically priced (from my sources) Avalon Napa Valley C.S.
Probably not for long aging, probably won't develop layers and layers of complexity, but enjoyable now, a good QPR, and fills a niche for a softer, less expensive, everyday Cabernet. Thanks, Newsguy for bringing it to my attention.

[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 12-29-2004).]