WTN: 2007 Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma

By the glass at Riverside Steakhouse and Oyster Bar in Fayetteville. My first visit to this restaurant. Deep purple-red color. Very aromatic. Some pepper, some candied cassis. Not everyone's style but I found it oddly attractive. Usually candied fruits in wine are a turnoff for me. Chewy texure with a "bite" only on the finish. Lingering presence. Mulberries? oxtail gravy? I guess that indicates a mixture of fruit and meaty elements. The cassis is indicative of Cabernet Sauvignon but the meaty element and pepper almost suggest Syrah.