2006 D.R. Stephens Cabernet Sauvignon DR II Walther Vineyard (Napa Valley)

The D.R Stephens D.R. II shows  aromas of  currant, toasty oak, and fresh blackberry. The ripe currant carries over across the palate and also picks up plumb, caramel, and vanilla. This wine is fruit forward,  complex and integrates fine grained tannins with a savory spice note on the long finish. The wine is 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Cabernet Franc.  The team of Winemaker Celia Welch Masyczek, Vineyard Manager Jim Barbour and Managing Partner Justin Stephens continues to create a great and consistent wine from the Walther Vineyard which is on the valley floor in Rutherford. Still a bit young (decant at least an hour in the near term) but built to be enjoyed over the next 4-6 years. In the world of  premium Napa Valley Cabernets a solid value at $65.