2004 Mendocino Farms Redvine Series

An intriguing biodynamic wine from a fledgling Mendocino label. Redvine Series is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon with 15% Petite Sirah and 10% Syrah sourced from Heart Arrow and Fairbairn ranches, both family-owned biodynamic vineyards in inland Mendocino County. The name Redvine refers to a particular type of soil there.

In the nose, it’s all cherries and dark fruit. In the mouth, it’s as plush as velvet, with a smooth, long drawn out finish. It’s particularly beautiful drinking with charred meat.

--S. Irene Virbila

Quick swirl

Region: Mendocino

Price: About $22

Style: Lush and smooth

Food it goes with: Bistecca alla fiorentina, thick Berkshire pork chops or a skirt steak

Where you find it: Friends of the Vine in Redondo Beach, (310) 792-5940; and Silverlake Wine in Los Angeles, (323) 662-9024 www.silverlakewine.com.