2001 Mara Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Hillside Alexander Valley California. 14.5% alcohol. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petite Verdot and 10% Merlot. $10.00 a glass at Endless Vine, Franklin Lakes.
Deep red color, deep hue, good fruit aroma and taste, hints of mint and earth, mild acidity and tannins, in very good balance, medium mouth feel, long single note finish, a pretty sipping wine, but not at all challenging -- or particularly interesting. No EGA. 3*.
Winemaker: "This is the first Cabernet Sauvignon made by Mara and what a vintage to make and roll out with. The 2001 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon wines are fabulous. The wine is from Hillside vineyards in the Alexander Valley having 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petite Verdot and 10% Merlot. The color is inky purple with a texture that is rich. The nose has almost a classic northern Bordeaux licorice, graphite aroma with a touch spice and toast. The wine has seen 30% new french oak and was bottled unfined and unfiltered. Possible maturity: 2008-2012"
http://www.marawines.com/