2005 Louis Martini Monte Rosso Cabernet Sauvignon

I've had this wine cellared for a number of years and finally decided to open it up last night, and it definitely lived up to my expectations.
First off you notice the dark ruby hue of this wine, along with its well focused balance throughout.  On the palate, you find aromas of black cherries, an earthiness and spice, tobacco, and for me even a hint of new leather.  This wine was worth my patience before opening.    

Winemaker's notes:
93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petite Verdot.
Nestled in the majestic Mayacamas Mountain range nearly 1,000 feet above the Sonoma Valley, is a vineyard that has been producing award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon for three generations.  Owned by the Louis M. Martini winery since 1938, the Monte Rosso vineyard (named "Monte Rosso" or "Red Mountain" for its rich, red volcanic soils) is a steep and rugged mountain vineyard with a desirable western exposure that produces wines with a unique sense of terroir. (Ratings - WN 94, WE 92, WS 91, RP 91, price $80)

Papa's All Blacks

This wine was purchased from my wine purveyor in California on his recommendation, and WOW, it was spot on!  This father and son collaboration takes me down memory lane regarding my love of zinfandel and heirloom wine making.  Morgan Twain Peterson (Bedrock Vineyards) and his father, Joel Peterson (Ravenswood Vineyards) have teamed up to take me back to my first introduction of Zinfandel from Ravenswood.  I have included the review that sold me on this wine - thanks Perry.

2011 “Bedrock” Papa’s All Blacks Sonoma County Tradition Old Vine Red

This is a new label / wine made by Morgan and his father, Joel Peterson (Ravenswood) from excellent, sustainably farmed old vine vineyards the family has worked with for years and it harkens back to the era of their ancestors coming to California. This is the best historically authentic California red wine blend using grapes revered in the late 1880’s; Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignane and Alicante Bouschet, not to mention up to 18 other lesser varities commonly field blended in the State’s oldest vineyards. Has aroma of sour cherry, blackberry compote, red currant, slate and allspice with a little citrus rind. The palate is powerful, rich and multi layered and primordial with focused, textured black fruits. Inspired by a Larkmead California Burgundy from the ‘30s. ($25.00 per bottle).