A mix of Colorado varietals.

• Author: Robbins, Claude
• Position: Product/service evaluation

VERSO CELLARS, COLORADO CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2003

WINE EVALUATION: Almost a year after I first tasted this wine we are trying it again. It clearly has reached a point that it needs to be drunk; I would not cellar this wine any more. Tannins have softened considerably and the fruit is showing through with a sweet cherry character. Just a hint of acidity at the finish; also slightly bitter at the finish.

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FIRST TASTED: March 2006, and reviewed in Colorado Vine

TRAIL RIDGE, COLORADO CABERNET FRANC, 2002

WINE EVALUATION: This wine shows reasonable varietal color with very ripe fruit, a hint of orange peel and black tea along with spices and smoke. Soft tannins, as you might expect with a wine that is five years old, with lots of black cherry and citrus in the mouth.

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CROOKED CREEK, COLORADO CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2003

WINE EVALUATION: Dark cherry in its heart and slight red orange at the edge along with tight transitions. It's showing well for its age. Lots of cherry and blackberry on the nose with hints of vanilla and a rich floral character.

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THE WINERY HOLY CROSS ABBEY, COLORADO MERLOT, 2005

WINE EVALUATION: Good color and cherry, raspberry hints of anise and herbs on the nose. This was just released and shows both fruit and some tannins. The tannins will decline as it matures and more complex fruit will show through.

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WRITERS NOTES: Pair these Capital Grille menu items:

The fruit forward character and full body of all of the above four wines means they will go well with a combination of rich dishes such as Steak au Poivre with Courvoisier Cream, Filet Oscar, Veal Chop...