Emblem - Heitz - Ridge - Groth - Napanook - Corison

Californian Values While there's no doubt that California produces some of the world's great Cabernets, the prices tend to match. Finding good value Cabernet from the Golden State is far harder than it might seem. But as ever, we've done the hard work so you don't have to. Here are our current recommendations for affordable Californian Cabernet. Deciderio Hernandez Old Vines Cabernet 2014 $26.95 - A small producer in San Benito County, Benny Hernandez is turning out intense, spicy, complex wines for a bargain price. Emblem, Napa Valley Cabernet 2013 $34.95 - From the Michael Mondavi portfolio, Rob Mondavi Jr is making an exceptional value wine here. The Napa Valley Cabernet from the great 2013 vintage is stacked full of juicy, dark fruit and spice. I find it hard to believe that there is any Napa Cab out there which can match this for value. Heitz Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 $59.95 - Heitz's style has never been the full on, densely fruited style of so many in the valley and the 2012 is another example of their restrained European sensibilities. Dusty and graceful - gorgeous stuff. Ridge Estate Cabernet 2014 $62.95 - This hard to find wine is the little brother to one of California's finest Cabernets: Ridge Monte Bello. Complex, mineral, expansive - this is very rewarding drinking. Groth, Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 $64.95 - An elegant expression of Oakville fruit with very pure dark cherry and spice notes: totally balanced and eminently drinkable. Very attractive. Napanook, Dominus 2013 $79.95 - From the king of Bordeaux's Right Bank, Christian Moueix, this vintage of Napanook is structured, ageworthy and quite sumptuous. For now and over the next 15 years. Corison, Napa Valley Cabernet 2013 $94.95 - Such a light winemaking hand here! Graceful, pure, complex and vibrant. Napa...just not as we often know it. I love this.