The Cuvèe St E is meant to emulate the Right Bank wines of St. Emilion in Bordeaux. The blend is primarily Cabernet Franc 53% with 41% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of dark roasted fruits and purple violets ooze from the nearly opaque rim. Within the succulent core are pencil shavings, anise and soft loam. The slight herbal edge of underbrush is attractive and is contributed by the high percentage of Cabernet Franc in the blend. The team at J. Lohr Winery has mastered the art of creating pleasurable wines that can age gracefully.

By W Peter Hoyne