Cabernet Sauvignon Deserves the Right Treatment

Wine clubs and wine collections

If you want to start a wine collection on a budget, plan ahead. You’ll need a space that stays at a temperature in the 50-60 degree range — if you’re planning to use your basement or a closet in the northeast corner, check to make sure the temperature there stays more or less constant and isn’t too dry. Some people rent wine storage lockers. And then, of course, you’ll need the wines themselves. You may want to specialize in a wine that isn’t too expensive and stores well, such as the Cabernet Sauvignons of California.

For a long time, Cabernet Sauvignon, able to survive in many climates without sacrificing quality was the most widely planted premium red wine grape in the world. A classic red wine with cassis notes and strong tannins, the California Cabernet Sauvignon goes well with any sort of red meat. Some recommend serving the Cab at 57 to 60 degrees to get the full flavor, while others recommend a temperature of 65 degrees. If you don’t have a thermometer handy, try putting the bottle in a refrigerator for 20 minutes before serving, or in an ice bucket for no more than five minutes. If you have a wine cellar, on the other hand, you may want to give the wine a few minutes to gently warm up. Joining a wine club will help you get good deals on these wines.

Great Cabernet Sauvignons near St. Helena, CA

Anderson’s Conn Valley Vineyards in Napa Valley, a short drive from downtown St. Helena, produces world-class wines at affordable prices. These include several variations on the Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 2010 Signature Vintage Cabernet Sauvignon, a deep purple wine with a slight red edge that comes from the best two barrels of the vintage, has a profoundly layered aroma. It begins with a strong cassis, with streaks of blackberry, plum, blueberry and red berries and highlights of crushed roses, blue flowers and anise. The oak adds elements of smoke and tar to the bouquet. The palate of the ’10 Signature is similar to the aroma, with the taste of black, blue and red fruits, licorice, anise, tobacco, smoke, rosehips, and violets. This is a wine that deserves to be kept and allowed to age, and is a showpiece for the skill of the Anderson’s Conn Valley winemaking team.

Anderson’s Conn Valley Vineyards has been owned and operated by the Anderson family since 1983. Anderson’s wines are sold online and in five locations in Napa Valley, and many other locations nationwide. Wine club members save $25 buying the 2013 Signature Cabernet Sauvignon online. If you’re looking for a good wine to serve at a special occasion, order a bottle today.