Beckmen Vineyards Estate Second Time Is The Charm For This California Cabernet

Six months ago we were looking forward to tasting the 2004 Beckmen Estate Cabernet Sauvignon to decide if we were going to continue with the wine through the vintage change. At the tasting, we were very unimpressed with the wine as it was tight and one dimensional, though we knew it had potential. So at that time, we passed on the new vintage but made a mental note to revisit it in six months.

Last week, six months later, we retried the wine - it is true that good things come to those who wait. To our surprise, the wine had opened up much more than we expected. The nose of the wine revealed aromas of jammy black cherry, earth and dark chocolate; the palate was filled with complex currant and cherry flavors backed by a dense chewy core of bittersweet chocolate. The finish was long and firm, but not over-the-top, with tannins that were equally as balanced and enjoyable.

For under $25.00, this California Cabernet packs a big bang for the buck. It displays the unique richness of Santa Barbara wines that, ironically, are typically Rhone varietals such as Syrah and Grenache. Here however, Cabernet Sauvignon is able to shine as these vines are planted 850 feet above sea level benefiting from a hillside vineyard site, limestone subsoil, and the microclimatic convergence of wine and sun. Basically, a winemaker's dream.

Decant and enjoy this wine with any meat dish, grilled chicken, or cheese. However, this gem is versatile and soft enough to enjoy on the deck, chatting with friends, or simply drinking while the grill warms up.