2000 Chateau Julien Cabernet

[Innkeeper]

2000 Chateau Julien, Monterey County, Cabernet Sauvignon ($13 Taste of Monterey). This is the first tier of three from Julien. 13% alcohol. Nice varietal aspects of black current and black cherry on the nose and upfront. Though most of the fruit for this wine was most probably grown on the Salinas Valley floor, it still shows nice local complexity of Monterey cab across the palate, and finishes very nicely. Though I admit partiality to these wines, I think it is one of the best values in an under $15 cab from just about anywhere. Matched with a sliced grillpanned sirloin with salad in vinaigrette. Lovely evening.

[wondersofwine]

I think Chateau Julien produces some rather nice red wines. I also liked a "port" that I sampled last time I visited the winery.

[Innkeeper]

Really enjoyed another one tonight with grillpanned (could have grilled yesterday, but not today) porterhouse steak with Morton Rub, and salad with Blue Stilton dressing. Life doesn't get much better these days.