Bob Stashak, a fermentation science graduate who formerly worked as a winemaker for Hacienda Wine Cellars, is the winemaker for the Coastal Ridge wines. The grapes are sourced from various growers in California with an eye to keeping the price reasonable without compromising quality. This round and lush 1998 Coastal Ridge Cab offers up plenty of Cabernet herbs and spice wrapped around smooth berry fruit. There’s also a nice Merlot and Chardonnay in the same series.

SHOPPING LIST

WASHINGTON HILLS 1998 MERLOT, COLUMBIA VALLEY, $12
Smooth and balanced, yummy with duck.

ROSEMOUNT ESTATE 2000 CHARDONNAY SEMILLON, AUSTRALIA, $8
Tangy and bright, great with shellfish

COASTAL RIDGE 1998 CABERNET SAUVIGNON, CALIFORNIA, $7
Spicy and lush, a classic with lamb