I just got back from judging the 2004 West Coast Wine Competition in Sonoma County. One of the varietals my panel judged was cabernet sauvignons under $10.50 (US) We expected blah wines tasting of grapes not cabernet ( a dumping ground for left over so-so juice) While some fit this dreary description, there were a couple of notable exceptions. One of our gold medal wines, and best of class award from us was the 2002 Rex Goliath Cabernet (from Hahn) Solid cab flavors, good balance, soft almost velvety mouth feel, medium long fruity finish. Nice juice and a real bargain (I have no $$$ interest in the winery-I'm just a fan of this wine.)
Bob Foster, San Diego