Winery:  "A dense ruby hue hints at the intensity of this young, bright wine. Aromas of blueberry, red cherry and raspberry are accented by darker notes of coffee bean, spicy bramble and hints of caramel. The palate is equally inviting, opening with fresh, sweet dark berry and baked cherry fruit before the firm tannins take hold and carry the long finish through deeper tones of black tea, briar and toasty oak. Decant for 30 minutes to allow this youthful wine to open up to its best flavors.

The majority of this blend is from our estate vineyards of Dos Olivos in Oakville and Rutherford Ridge, Andrus, Manley Lane and Circle Hill in Rutherford. Close spacing and a strict regimen of fruit-dropping and de-leafing enhanced the bright berry flavors of the Oakville Fruit and Rutherford's signature "dust" characteristics, both evident in the finished wine."

Wired For Wine:  The Pine Ridge is classically balanced and easy to pair with food.  Its young brightness makes it a terrific choice next to rich or buttery dishes like osso bucco or a perfectly roasted chicken with a delicious gravy on the side.  The firm tannins call out for steak au poivre.  The slightly bitter hit from a charred edge creates a great stage for those tannins, while the pepper tempers them ever so slightly for the perfect blend of flavors.  Not in the mood for red meat?  A pepper crust on an Ahi tuna steak is a fantastic alternative.  If red meat is on the menu, don't forget the lamb.  It goes beautifully with this Napa Cabernet.  We suggest a rich lamb ragout with eggplant over fresh tagliatelle.  And, as it ages, try it with more delicate dishes like porcini risotto. Mm-mmm.  When we have the Pine Ridge, we like to end the meal with a French Coulommiers cheese next to our last glass or two.  The Coulommiers is in the Brie family and has a soft mushroomy flavor that we love.  If dessert is on your mind, our choice is chewy, double dark chocolate cookies with espresso gelato sandwiched in between.  What could be better?  Maybe just one more glass...

Potential to age 10-15 years.

Size:  750ml
Vintage:  2006
Varietal:  83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, 4% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc
Ageing:  14 months in new and old French oak
Alcohol:  14.1%
Region:  Napa Valley, California