Wine of the week: 2014 Dusted Valley "Boomtown"

"Cabernet is king" is one of the oft-repeated phrases in the wine world. Unfortunately, it often takes princely-plus funds to buy good cabernet. So when a $15 gem such as the 2014 Dusted Valley "Boomtown" Washington state cabernet sauvignon comes along, it's cause for rejoicing. Made by winery owners and Wisconsin natives Chad Johnson and Corey Braunel, this rustic but smooth red coats the palate with layers of ripe red fruit and edgy but smooth tannins, leading to a hearty and lengthy finish. This is a seriously versatile wine for the table, excelling with grilled burgers and brats (must be the Wisconsin connection) as well as autumnal soups and roasted meat, fowl or veggies.

Available at G-Will, Hennepin Lake, 1010 Washington, Liquor Boy, United Penn Lake, Chaser's and others.