My parents love nothing more than to have a super smoky, oaky bottle with a little fruit to compliment their saturday steak nights.  The smoky character of the wine compliments the chargrilled flavor of the meat, and with a bigger red, adds tannins building both the wine and the steak.  The problem is that oak and storage costs are expensive, so many oaky wines tend to be pricier.  Can 2009 Rodney Strong Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon fill the bill, or is it just masquerading a cheaper bottle at a higher price point? 

Sight:  Deep purple core, magenta edges.

Smell:  Black pepper, smoke, oak, blackberry, plum, cigar, and a light bell pepper and mint.

Sip:  The mouth feel is big, but slightly watery, with moderate acidity.  Black pepper, tobacco, cigar box, and cherry all find a way to make their presence known.  [A.B.V. 13.5%]

Savor:  Mouth drying, black pepper, smoke, and light fruit appear.  The smoke and oak are most prevalent.  The finish has a moderate length.

2009 Rodney Strong Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is a great example of heavy oak influence.  The fruit is present, but it isn’t the primary star here.  Rather, smoke, oak, and tobacco drive the flavor profile.  The body manages to be big without being heavy, so come in with expectations of size but not thickness.  If you are a fan of oak, 2009 Rodney Strong Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine with serious potential for the roast beast at christmas or your next steak.

Verdict: Smokey, Black Pepper, Light Fruit
Price: $12.95
Sonoma County, California
http://www.rodneystrong.com/