Wine of the week: 1998 Blackstone Cabernet Sauvignon.(Chicago Tribune)

Wine mavens talk endlessly about the nuances of wine, and we can learn by listening to them. Sooner or later, though, comes the moment of truth when we actually taste this liquid fruit of the vine and form our own opinions. Others' reactions may clarify or illuminate ours, but attraction or distaste is instant.

I bring this up because of my reaction to this California cabernet. On reflection, I decided the wine lacked distinction and nuance. That's understandable in a $10 wine. But my initial reaction_the one that counts_was, "I like this!"

Why? The winery's mission statement says it all: "We believe our wines should be friendly, flavorful and ...