Winery: Murphy-Goode

Vintage: 2010

Wine Name/Vineyard: Dealer’s Choice

Wine Category: Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Alexander Valley

State or country: California

Price: $20

ABV: 14.5%

Cases produced: N/A

The Barrel Cellar Score:  88 points

Review date: October 14, 2020

About the Winemaker: Established in 1985, Murphy-Goode was founded by Tim Murphy, Dale Goode, and Dave Ready. Having already had a footing in the industry, (growing and producing), Their initial focus for the winery was on producing white wines from their property. Dave (the winemaker) claims to place an emphasis on balance when it comes to wine making. The approach is such that while conditions may change year to year, having a focus on balance will lead to consistency when it comes to quality.

Color:  Deep Purple

Nose:  Oak, well ripened plums, and red berries

Taste: Perfectly ripened cherries, and blackberries. Finish: Sustained with black pepper and oak.

Assessment: “Dealer’s Choice” from Murphy-Goode exhibits classic features of a California Cab. It’s big, it’s bold, and it has backbone. My favorite aspect of this wine is, that it is all the above, and still manages to maintain flavor notes of fruit picked at the perfect ripeness. The cherry notes in this wine are fresh and bright, they provide the perfect amount of acidity to balance the oak tannins in the wine.

Ready to drink now.

Murphy-Goode Dealer’s Choice Cabernet Sauvignon is a very good wine at a great price.  88 points. 

Pairing recommendation:  Bruschetta, charcoal grilled ribeye, double chocolate brownie.