I'm soliciting advice: I will have an opportunity for someone to pick up a couple bottles for me while in San Francisco (Staying at the Hilton). Based on Thomas' previous recs, I am definitely interested in a Swan or Peterson Zin. I'm also interested in a good cabernet, preferably under $30, but I'd go a little above that for the right bottle.
Here's the thing. I'm an Old World kind of guy, who used to love California cabernet and feels betrayed by what's gone on lately. For example, I used to love Heitz and BV. Now I believe that, figuratively speaking, Joe Heitz is barely clinging to life, and we should all be sitting shiva for Georges de Latour, who died a slow and painful death over the period from the late 80's to mid 90's. I have made an arbitrary decision (which has worked well for me in practice) that I won't drink any unfortified wine if it has an ABV over 14.5%, and I prefer that the percentage be much lower.
So, given that profile, can anyone recommend a cabernet (or cab style blend) that would remind me of the of the good old days? I prefer Napa, but I'm not dogmatic about that.
Secondary question: Any good wine shops to recommend, especially in the neighborhood of the Hilton? K&L and Terroir are already on the radar, is there anything closer?
TIA, for any suggestions. |
