While we enjoy Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley, too often we find them to be priced way out of our budgets. Recently, we discovered two Napa Cabs that, while not inexpensive, deliver good bang-for-your-buck. And on top of that, they recognize philanthropic efforts which are a great thing in my book. We had the opportunity to taste both the 2006 Markham Vineyards The Philanthropist and the 2006 Markham Vineyards The Altruist in a samples tasting, and both were excellent.

Markham Vineyards is one of the oldest wineries in California’s Napa Valley. Originally established as Laurent Winery by Bordeaux immigrant Jean Laurent in 1874, Bruce Markham purchased and renamed the winery in 1978. Today, Markham Vineyards is one of the brands in the Terlato Wines International portfolio.

Each year, Markham Vineyards awards two $25,000 grants to individuals or groups in the U.S. who are committed to philanthropic efforts in their neighborhood, town, or city. The winners are awarded the Markham Mark of Distinction. The 2006 inaugural vintage of The Philanthropist and The Altruist are dedicated to the 2008 Mark of Distinction winners.

Both wines are single-vineyard, limited production, estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon. The Philanthropist is sourced from Markham’s Yountville Estate Vineyard, located on a hillside benchland in the Mayacamas Mountains range. Meanwhile, The Altruist is sourced from Markham’s Calistoga Estate Vineyard, located further north at the base of Mt. St. Helena.

While both are excellent, well-made wines that received a Quality rating of 4 stars, I personally gave a slight edge to The Philanthropist which is just a bit bigger and more fruit-forward. I encourage you to give either of these wines a try if you have the chance.

2006 Markham Vineyard The Philanthropist Cabernet Sauvignon (Yountville Estate Vineyard, Napa Valley, California): Medium-deep red and very aromatic. Cinnamon and spice dominate the nose; blackberries, black cherry, black plums, and spice come through on the palate. Fruit-forward, medium to full-bodied, and lively with drying tannins. Well-balanced with a very long finish.
Quality: 4 stars (out of 5)
QPR: 4 bangs for your buck (out of 5)
Where to Buy: Received as sample, suggested retail $55; Winery, $55

2006 Markham Vineyards The Altruist Cabernet Sauvignon (Calistoga Estate Vineyard, Napa Valley, California): Medium-deep red and aromatic. Aromas of wood and vanilla lead to flavors of red and black fruits and spice. Medium to full-bodied and lively with medium to high tannins. Well-balanced and smooth with a long finish.
Quality: 4 stars (out of 5)
QPR: 4 bangs for your buck (out of 5)
Where to Buy: Received as sample, suggested retail $55; Winery, $55

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