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2006, Quenoc, Cabernet Sauvignon, approx. $13

Having put effort towards a marinade for some sirloin steaks that I feared might be a bit tough on the grill of a completely forgettable red wine from the fridge, black pepper, rosemary, garlic powder and some other dried spices … a wine pairing seemed appropriate. I had picked up this wine a few weeks back having been impressed with a cab from Quenoc a number of years ago. The wine went very well with the steaks offering a very smooth yet a bit uneventful experience. The wine didn’t have the traditional Napa Valley cab strong and impact full flavor as found in most 2005s I have tried. It was much more smooth and mellow. I missed the pizazz that has made the 2005 Napa cabs memorable, but I would still recommend this wine based on price and overall balanced enjoyment.