WTN: Two good Napa Cabs. for $20 per

Last nite I opened a 2006 Ramian Napa Cab. that was very nice and almost ready to strut its stuff. Probably six hours open or a few more years in the cellar would have been benificial. Very dark purple/black with some sour and sweet cherry notes on the nose and palate, there was a touch of black currant but not to the extent that I really love.

Tonight I opened a 2004 Ahnfeldt Napa Cab. and it was similar to the Ramian but needed even more time. No trace of currant but lots of dusty sour cherry that somewhat smoothed out over time. These were both bought from the Wine Exchange for $20 and well worth it. I wish I had bought a case of each to follow over the next 6-8 years.

Interesting notes on two wines from wineries I have never heard of. How did you decide to buy these (I'm about 10 mins from WineX)?

I absolutely love the Wine Exchange and have been buying wine from them for many years. I trust their descriptions and liked what I read so got six of each. I have never been to the store but would sure love to some day!!!

Jim.. it is an awesome store. I shudder to think how much $$$ I have left there, how many tastings I've been to there, or how much time I've spent in there. I'm going to try the Ahnfeldt based on your description. I don't usually buy from them based on their email or even the monthly flyer, but rather just wander around, usually buying stuff I already know about. Maybe I should try your approach.. a nice $20 Cab sounds good, compared to a nice $40-50 Cab!! I'll try to pay more attention... again.. thanx for your notes!!!

Two great wines, Jim. I've followed the Ramien for three vintages now...and the 2004 was the star of a recent Cabernet tasting, imho.

The Ahfeldt 2003 was very nice, too. Unfortunately, the retail price for their regular cab bottling is a little higher than $20.

Thanx, Brian.. I will check them both out then!!!

Twenty Bench is an awesome $20 Napa Cab.