David Falchek, Times Shamrock Writer
You're just can't expect California-style lush, voluptuous red wines from the east like. But if you are willing to met red wines from quality producer such as Chadssford on their own terms, you'll find some very good wines.
So it is with Chaddsford Winery 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon with peppery, dried black fruit and mulch smells and flavors of black tea. But this wine is lighter in body and texture, and the acids and tannins are still a bit rough. I'm thinking they will smooth out in another year or two.
Only three-fourths of this wine is cabernet sauvignon grapes. The rest is cabernet franc and merlot, making it a Bordeaux-style blend. The wine spent 12 months in French oak barrels. Honestly, 2005 reds from eastern states were a blockbuster. This vintage ranks as a very good effort.
Three and a half glasses. $19.
Index:
1 glass - Poor, barely drinkable.
2 glasses - Below Average. Undistinguished with minor flaws.
3 glasses - Good. Solid and well made.
4 glasses - Above Average. Special qualities or characteristics.
5 glasses - Exceptional. Superior character and style.