Cabernet/Merlot

March, 2006 Update: Bad news! I received word from Michael Burnett that the ’03 vintage has sold out (although you might find a stray bottle here and there)! But look for the ’04 vintage to be released sometime during spring, 2006.

Chuckanut Ridge 2003 Bad Bunny (about $18): Winemakers John Powers and Michael Burnett smash any hint of a sophomore jinx with this awesome new release in only their second year of production. They also somehow managed to get approval for a label featuring a cigarette toking rabbit! Talk about charmed lives!

History aside, this is a wine that commands your attention. It’s a blend of 70 percent Cab and 30 percent Merlot and cram-packed with dark red fruit flavors and noticeable but unobtrusive tannins. A steal at this price for a wine that will only continue to get better over time.