This 2020 vintage cabernet from Drinkhacker standby Rodney Strong is a current release as of early 2026, but despite its advanced age and Reserve status, the wine — crafted from Sonoma County fruit — is available for a mere 60 bucks. There’s no word on varietal additions beyond cab, but it’s aged 24 months in French oak barrels, 75% of which are new.
Currants are front and center, with black cherry and strawberry building with even a slight amount of time in glass. Incredibly fruity for its age, the wine shows off violet notes as it sits for a bit, though overtones of vanilla and milk chocolate offer a considerably sweet through-line. The finish brings things back into balance, with lingering tannin folding in some pencil graphite and anise. Chocolate lingers, darker and more intense, alongside a reprise of florals.
It’s ultimately a fairly straightforward cab, but a rather iconic example of one. The wine probably has another five years in it but there’s no reason to delay if something hearty is on the menu…