Today’s 2007 Mantra Alexander Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon fits the profile of a top-tier Cab beautifully.

This delicious wine, which hails from the coveted 2007 California vintage (to which Robert Parker bestowed a decade-high 96 Points), is a superb example of Cabernet from the Alexander Valley. That is to say that the wine is elegant, while also refined, and more balanced than some of its Napa brethren. Make no mistake, there are plenty of flavors and deep aromatics here, as well.

A little shy on opening, this wine softens with some swirling or decanting. For best results, let this wine breathe for at least 30 minutes.