Duckhorn Three Palms Vineyard Merlot

I have been told that Duckhorn is well known for their Merlot, but the cost is usually $85 a bottle.  Two summers ago, I was able to get six bottles of the Three Palms 2005 vintage at $52 each.   Apparently, the wine distributor was able get a fantastic deal for the cases and in turn the store was able to sell the wine at a lower price.  I got super lucky on the deal and the 2005 vintage was incredible!  This easily makes my top ten.

This is a serious wine for serious people and I say that with some truth.  It certainly isn't for the timid.  It is bold, spicy, rich, red fruit forward and layered with chocolate and spice accents.  Whether you buy this at $52 or $85, you certainly want to take time to appreciate its complexity and elegance.  Wine Enthusiast 94 points.

$85

Overall: 94 (Excellent - A Must Try!)

Frank Family Vineyards

Elegance in a glass or in a mug, whichever vessel you decide to drink this from - will exert the same qualities of the bottle from which you've poured.  Frank Family 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is deep purple in color with aromas of chocolate espresso, sweet black fruit and a touch of spice.  It's pure elegance.  The complexity of layers cannot be described well enough, it's a must try.  

Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is 94% cabernet sauvignon, 3% merlot, and 3% petit verdot.  It is produced and bottled by Frank Family Vineyards - Calistoga, California.  The 2007 vintage was my favorite. Wine Enthusiast 90 points. 

$47 

Overall: 94 (Excellent - A Must Try!)

Beau Vigne Juliet

We met at The Wine Seller on Plymouth & Nixon in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  This is a bold and elegant cabernet sauvignon from Stag's Leap Ridge - Napa Valley, California.  It is bottled and vinted by Beau Vigne Winery.

The 2009 vintage is 81% cabernet sauvignon, 15% merlot, 2% petit verdot, and 2% cabernet franc.  I had the opportunity to enjoy the 2007 which was 100% cabernet sauvignon.  Both vintages were amazing! This is one of my favorite "special occasion" wines.  It's certainly a crowd-pleaser, but I would keep this for yourself and break out a less expensive wine.  Wine Advocate 91 points.  

$58 

Overall: 94 (Excellent - A Must Try!)