The 1974 Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley had 13% alcohol, cost under $12 back then, and scored a gold 18+ points on the Dionysian scale of a possible 20.

This is from the year my son was born. It’s my last Charles Krug. 1974 was exceptional in California; maybe their best wines ever.

It had an amber edge but was still light ruby, tobacco and oak were obvious, and fruit still filled your nose.

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Wines like this prove California can make great wine. They have to teach their buyers what food wine is. This example could replace any top[ Bordeaux and paired with lamb chops.

At 45 years old, the wine was perfect. It was decanted just prior to serving and it continued to open up for another full hour. It was a Vintage Selection.  Modern “fruit-bombs” do not enhance any meal; they over-power it. Seek out wines below 14.6% alcohol.  Enjoy life more with wine.   In Vino Veritas.