Lyeth
Meritage Sonoma County
2005
This Bordeaux-style Californian is a blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 9% Malbec, and 2% Cabernet Franc. When we opened it last night it seemed tight and astringent, but by this evening it had softened to reveal bright cherry and bramble fruits, and a kind of unctuous leatheryness we associate with real Bordeaux. The Malbec gives it heft, and the Merlot mellows it out.
A good fall wine. Just wait a day.
Price: $14 (sale: regular price about $17)
