2011 Two Old Dogs Cabernet Sauvignon · United States

With only 50% new oak, the nose has an enticing component of red fruit highlighted by toasty mocha and dried cherry notes. The 12% Merlot gives this wine softer fruit flavors and an earlier approachability with raspberry, currant, cranberry, bright cherry and sage flavors, but it still shows great Cabernet Sauvignon varietal expression. With alcohol under 14%, it is a pretty and accessible wine with a plush mouthfeel, good oak and fruit balance and a ripe, sweet cherry finish.