A very boldly flavored and distinguished wine, although it’s also very tannic. Shows the intensely concentrated flavors of mountain Napa Cabernet, flooding the palate with blackberries and black currants, and the finish is long and savory. Yet those tannins interfere with true palate enjoyment. Should age easily throughout the next 8–10 years.
— S.H.
(10/1/2010)
Dry, tart and citrusy. Offers streamlined flavors of lemons, limes, tannic herb tea and minerals, with oak and lees adding much-needed richness. It’s elegant in a Chablisian way, but trades fruity opulence for a more complex, connoisseur’s austerity. Drink now, and don’t over-chill.
— S.H.
(10/1/2010)
Tannic and gritty now, with a hard mouthfeel, and it’s hard to imagine the wine will ever resolve its issues. However, it’s clean and dry and intricately layered in blackberries and cedar. Give it a good decant.
— S.H.
(10/1/2010)