[Jims5543]

I have a '97 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon (Astrale e Terra) in the cooler waiting for a special occasion. ( I wanted a '99 but they are getting really hard to find) I think it has a real cork. That synthetic one really threw me. I am used to giving it a sniff prior to the pour.

The wine, once it warmed up turned out delightful. Any fears I had after corking it were quickly dismissed.

Don - Thanks for chiming in. I am no expert at all. Your input was very informative.

I went to a vinyard over the weekend with my wife. (Bitlmore Estate winery) I was actually impressed when they stressed that wine tasting should NEVER be intimidating. Feel free to ask questions. It was very relaxed and not snooty at all and we found some really good wines and bought them.