Benziger, a family winery in the sleepy hamlet of Glen Ellen, Sonoma County, consistently produces very good wines. After a difficult growing season and low yields for the 2011 vintage, the 2012 wine grape harvest in California was exceptional. Robert Parker (wine critic) rates the 2012 Cabernet vintage at 96 points. Benziger has totally embraced the biodynamic and sustainable principles of wine making and viticulture which I blogged in this post https://bobthewineguy.net/2014/09/04/visiting-benziger-winery-sonoma-valley/

BENZIGER Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

Sonoma County, California $18.
Benziger says “Our Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is very approachable with inviting, dark berry aromas and hints of tea, molasses and coffee. Rich flavors of blackberry, plum and dark chocolate are layered throughout the palate, while its sturdy structure and integrated tannins add a light chalkiness to the long, smooth finish. This cab has a subtle smokiness that originates from its oak aging, which gives the feeling of completeness. We recommend pairing with a New York Strip or roast.”