2009 Tobin James, Notorious, Paso Robles, Cabernet Sauvignon ($18 U.S., Alcohol level 14.4%). This was the first Cab we opened from the “Blue Label” * shipment from TJ last spring. It was ready to go and gave traditional black fruit including cassis on the nose and upfront. There was more of the fruit in middle and just a touch of vanilla/oak, and a lovely finish.
We matched it with tenderloin steaks in rasher, grilled over charcoal and mesquite chips; our first straight neck yellow squash from the garden stuffed and baked; and sliced tomatoes. It made for a super Monday night dinner.
*Tobin James’ Blue Labels are for rotation, and the Red Labels are for aging.