2005 Bambino Cabernet Sauvignon - Two Stars
"Each year, the greatest number of wines submitted to the The Chronicle Tasting Panel is for the Napa Valley Cabernet category. There are so many that we divide them into two tastings: the more expensive bottles during the winter holidays, and the $50-and-under bottles in spring. This year, we soldiered through 120 of the less expensive group: 52 wines were from 2005, 49 were 2004s and the remainder from other vintages.
In general, 2005 produced large harvests despite its wet start, late bloom and some unseasonable rain. The long, cool growing season helped slowly ripen the grapes, resulting in good- quality fruit with mature flavors and less sugar than warmer years.
Last year, the panel recommended 26 of the 117 less expensive Napa Valley Cabs tasted, with seven wines - primarily 2003 bottlings - receiving 2 1/2 stars or more. Even though there were a few favorites missing this year, it generally appears the panel found more to recommend from last year's 2003s than this year's 2004/2005 vintages, which are still enjoyable, affordable and offer the Napa Valley Cabernet cachet.
TWO STARS 2005 Chiarello Vineyards Bambino Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($35) This is the third vintage of this 100 percent Cabernet from 5-year-old vines. A nose shows oak spice, cassis and ripe blackberry with a touch of underlying greenness. Similar flavors on the palate have enough fruit to balance the brightness and tannins. Click here to read full article.