A tremendous Cabernet, showing the authority of its vineyard, high up in the Vaca Mountains. Dry and full-bodied, this wine is spectacularly rich in blackberries, cassis and minerals and is well oaked. What’s most remarkable is the quality of the tannins. They’re firm, yet soft and sweetly refined. A tremendous accomplishment, and should develop in the bottle for a…
— S.H.
(12/15/2011)
A big, strong powerhouse of a Cabernet. None of the parts have come together yet. Sweet, smoky oak over here, flamboyantly ripe blackberry and cherry fruit there, fine, ripe tannins free-floating over all. In four more years, this lovely Cab should be undergoing secondary development in the bottle, so hold until 2015 if you can.
— S.H.
(12/31/2011)
A terrific Cabernet, dry and rich and dramatically layered. Tremendous in blackberry and currant flavors, its firm tannnis come from both the grapes themselves and the oak barrels in which the wine was aged. Conn Creek has really been at the top of the Cabernet game in recent years. Cellar this lovely wine until 2015, when it should begin to blossom.
— S.H.
(12/31/2011)
Showcases this varietal’s sweetly limpid, berry side. Raspberry liqueur flavors are rich and long on the palate, accompanied by crisp acids and the heat of alcohol. Delicious from the soft texture through the full-bodied, ripe finish. —S.H.
— S.H.
(9/1/2002)
A big, vital Cabernet that feels dramatic from start to finish. Shows powerful mountain tannins and fruity concentration, packing a punch of blackberries, black currants and minerals. Terrific now after decanting, and should develop through 2015, at least.
— S.H.
(12/15/2011)
This is a blend of the various vineyards Conn Creek has access to. It is a splendid testimony to the winemaker’s ability to take disparate lots and make them harmonious. Just a beautiful Cabernet, dry and softly luscious, with complex blackberry, black currant, anise and cedar flavors. A wonderful experience now, and it should develop in the bottle for several years.
— S.H.
(12/31/2011)
Made from 100% Cabernet grown on the valley floor north of St. Helena, this shows ripe, velvety flavors of blackberry jam, cassis and dark chocolate, wrapped into firm but soft tannins, with a pleasing warmth from the alcohol. Drink over the next four years.
— S.H.
(11/1/2012)
Absolutely delicious, a fat, sumptuous wine that flatters the palate from beginning to end. Smells plush, brimming with currants and fancy oak trimmings, and turns lush and complex with fruit in the mouth. Best to drink it soon, in the fullness of youth.
— S.H.
(6/1/2004)