The roaring nose shows enormous concentration and depth, with licorice, plum and oak shadings. The mouthfeel is big and jammy, but the fruit is well defined, with a sweet-tart quality and dark coffee accents. Almost seems overmature, but truly flavorful and inviting already.
— W.E.
(11/1/2000)
The nose here offers a real mixed bag: some funk, a little perfume, worn leather, even pepperoni and peanuts. The mouth blends flavors of black fruit with peppery spice and herbs. It may be a touch linear and tight, but the basics are definitely there. Overall a very good wine.
— W.E.
(11/1/2000)
An unmistakable meatiness marks the nose, and then there’s some Middle Eastern spices like cumin and coriander. Earthy and full of black-fruit flavor, with oak pouring in late. Try to ignore the bulky young tannins; assume the wine will mature and find its stride down the road.
— W.E.
(11/1/2000)
Tobacco and pepper combine to create slight stable aromas. Black- and red-berry fruit is chunky, with a mild burn. More rustic than refined, with a dry, clipped finish. If you like your Cabs big and viscous, try this one.
— W.E.
(11/1/2000)