Father’s Day is coming up this week and I’m sure many people are still 
wondering what to get Dad this year. I can tell you, I’m pretty certain Dad does not want a tie. Somehow neckties have come to symbolize the classic bad Father’s Day gift, or at the very least the default one. This year get your Dad a bottle of wine. In particular I think you should get him a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. Over the next few days I’m going to present several Cabs that I recommend at different price points. Depending on your budget and Dads taste there should be one in there that works for you. The first one up is from Martin Ray Winery.
The 2006 Martin Ray Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from fruit sourced in Napa, Sonoma & Mendocino Counties. In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon (80%), this wine has Merlot (18%), as well as Cabernet Franc & Syrah (2%) blended in. This offering was aged in French oak for 24 months. 9,500 cases of this Cabernet Sauvignon were produced and the suggested retail price is $20.
Dark berry fruit with a slightly funky edge, vanilla and eucalyptus are all part of this Cabernet’s nose. Throughout the palate there is a solid and persistent core of fruit as well as a significant spice component underpinning it. Chocolate, mineral, black tea, a touch of pencil lead and continued spice are all elements of the above average finish of this wine.
What I like best about this selection is that it has excellent balance and proportion. The blending of fruit from three diverse Cabernet Sauvignon producing counties helps make this wine multi-faceted in style. It’s got nice structure and tannins that yield with some air. While this isn’t a Cabernet that you’re going to lay down for a long time, it’ll drink nicely over the next 3-5 years. Shop around and you’ll find this wine for close to $15. The Martin Ray Tri-County Cabernet is a good value and a delicious gift for Dad.