This has sharp, cedary oak dominating the fruit right now. The fruit is good, solid black cherry, but it is not quite big enough to tackle all that new oak, though some bottle time will help. Good, ambitious winemaking. —P.G.
— P.G.
(9/1/2002)
This 100% cab is thick and chewy, with lots of chocolatey tannin, and a solid core of cherry/berry fruit. Substantial and tasty, if a bit one-dimensional.
— P.G.
(4/1/2005)
The rule here seems to be more oak, more tannin, more chocolatey flavors over fruit that is very similar to the regular cab. Good stuff, solid and very clean, with plump berry flavors.
— P.G.
(4/1/2005)
The winemakers select is bigger than the regular bottling, with high-toned fruit, bigger and rougher tannins, and more obvious oak. The extra extraction makes it less, not more accessible for near-term drinking.
— P.G.
(4/1/2005)
The blend is three quarters cab, one quarter merlot, and it reflects the winery style, which is smooth-drinking, supple, simple wines that show monochromatic fruit and some chocolate.
— P.G.
(4/1/2005)
The grapes come from Alder Creek and reflect the less than fully ripe flavors of cranberry, sour cherry and pepper. Lots of unresolved oak and hints of pickle barrel; this wine needs additional airing and/or bottle age to fully come together.
— P.G.
(4/1/2005)