I had a chance to sit down with a wine rep last week and taste three Cabernets from his portfolio. Any time I hear a rep say "We wil be tasting Cabernet today", I assume that tehre will be a corresponding drain in my checkbook. Cab is probably the most difficult varietal to find great value at lower price points.

In this case, the Cabs I tasted all over delivered at their prices. I was pleasantly surprised by the flavor and depth that each brought to the table.

2010 Shannon Ridge Cabernet (Lake County, CA)

Rich and well balanced with a lasting finish. Nicely structured with bright cherry and raspberry fruit and a moderate toasty vanilla spice. A steal at $10-$12!

2010 Steele Cabernet (CA)

Elegant and fruit forward with wild berry, bluberry and herbed spices on the finish. Soft tannins and mild oak aging make this appealing from the first sip. $20-$22

2009 Shed Horn Cellars Cabernet (Lake County, CA)

Bigger and bolder than the previous two. Black cherry and currant berry intertwine with coccoa, tobacco and black pepper. Good complexity and depth. $30-$35

All of these Cabs represent nice value at their prices. Give them a try today!