Banfi Tavernelle Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

Last week while on my way to the mall to allow Shirley to spend some money, I stopped into one of my favorite wine shops, Vinomania.  I wasn't planning on walking out with any wines, just stopped in to say hi to shop owner, Gary Decker. But, after taking a small walk around the shop while Gary was busy, I found a few wines that I just had to buy.   One was a Cabernet Sauvignon from Castello Banfi, a 2006 Tavernelle ($40). This wine is from Banfi's Estate vineyards near the hamlet of Tavernelle, in the southern hills of Montalcino.   A bit above my normal price range, but some of my best Cabernet Sauvignon's are from Italy and Castello Banfi has always been among my favorite Italian producers.  I would usually save a wine like this for some thick grilled burgers or a grilled steak, but later that evening with a left over pizza slice and some extra sharp cheddar bites, I opened the Banfi Cab/Sauv. and settled in for some Thursday night NFL.
The aromas coming from this dark ruby red wine were every bit what I expected.  Currant, some blackberry and blueberry with tobacco, licorice and a faint hint of leather. A very pleasing mouthfeel full of berries, mocha and spice leading to a long dry finish with blackberry and spice.  The pizza and cheese bites were a great match, but now I am dreaming of a grilled medium rare rib eye or a thick juicy Black Angus burger and a Castello Banfi Tavernelle Cabernet Sauvignon.   Very highly recommended.