Cabernet Sauvignon is the king of grapes, yet not all Cabernet is created equal.

Fundamentally speaking, Cabernet is a full-bodied red wine with dark fruit flavors and savory tastes from black pepper to bell pepper.

This Cabernet from Three Oaks Winery in Albert Lea is lighter than some and is easy to drink. It is aged with French oak and offers hints of black cherry, licorice and black pepper wrapped together with a dash of vanilla.

A wine for any occasion — special or not — it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser. It’s fairly priced around $20.

Three Oak Winery suggests pairing this Cabernet with a steak, ribs, a big burger or a mushroom pizza. Because of its gentle balance of flavors, I would recommend to pair with a wide variety of menu items, and I’m excited to try it in my spaghetti sauce.

Three Oak Vineyards and Winery is at the former iconic Wedge Nursery on the northwest side of Albert Lea. Its first wine was bottled in November 2014. The company is now up to 11 varietals — half are made with pure Minnesota grapes, half are made with a Minnesota and California blend.

Owner Jay Enderson is excited to be available for events such as cooperate meetings and weddings.

Three Oak Wines are available for purchase in Albert Lea at Cheers Liquor and Hy-Vee Liquor.