Seriously sophisticated but wholly unpretentious, the Oakville Cabernet is a wine that truly reflects the vintage and estate from which it was born.  Focused from the onset, aromas of black currant, brambly olallieberry, and stewed blueberries emanate from the glass.  Sweet spices add to the complexity of the fruit with accents of toasted almonds, clove, and cardamom interplaying nicely.

III Michaels Estate, now known as Rancho Pequeno, is located on the Eastern Bench of Oakville.  We love the site because it has great exposure but also cool, heavy soils that help the vines retain natural acidity all the while letting the fruit fully ripen deep, dark, intense flavors.  The palate is dense, and weighty, but light on its toes, never feeling overly fat or flabby.  The tannins are sweet and well integrated, but firm enough that you can tell this wine will age for over a decade.  Wonderful flavors are persistent throughout and the length lingers for well over a minute.