2005 Ferrari-Carano Cabernet

Posted by Alan Boehmer Nov 27, 2007

2005 Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley; 14.5% alc., $38

There is an ongoing rivalry between the expensive Cabernet Sauvignons of Napa Valley and their less expensive brethren across the mountains in Sonoma's Alexander Vally. Traditional views hold that the Napa Cabs possess more character and complexity and require significant cellaring, whereas the Alexander Valley Cabs are softer, richer, and fruitier. Blind tastings by professional panels do not always bear this notion out and the wine we're reporting on would probably fool many professional tasters.

From the finest vintage of the decade (rated 97), the 2005 Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon is beautifully balanced, dense, chewy, and almost opaque. Unmistakable varietal character with intense aromas of ripe dark cherries, bittersweet chocolate, and white pepper. Deep flavors inform this very muscular wine. The 2005 Ferrari-Carano Cabernet reflects the rich fruitiness of the finest mountain grown Alexander Valley Cabernets.

A carefully crafted Cabernet, rounded out with 4% each of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Syrah. The 2005 Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent example of mid-priced California Cabernets, which tend to be more serious and complex than their under-$20 brethren. Those are usually made for early drinking and typically have much less stuffing than the Ferrari-Carano.

This is not a wine that needs ten years of cellaring to show at its best, but will certainly benefit from three or more. If you prefer powerful, aggressive Cabernets, enjoy it now. But if you give this wine a few years to integrate and soften the tannins, you will be richly rewarded. Enjoy this rich wine with lamb dishes or dark chocolate. The 2005 Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon is attractively priced at $38 and worth every penny. Recommended.