Here’s a firm young Cab that desperately needs time in the cellar. Its tannins push and shove the palate, stinging and shutting it down. But there’s a deep core of terrifically ripe black currants, and the oak application is fancy. Only 150 cases produced. Best after 2011 and possibly for many years after.
— S.H.
(12/31/2008)
From a 4.5-acre vineyard directly behind To Kalon, this is only the winery’s third vintage. Sleek and plush, it’s loaded with dark plum, black cherry, chocolate, cola, blackberry and spice flavors. The tannins are supple, and the finish is long. Editors’ Choice. —J.M.
— J.M.
(2/1/2003)
You want a dramatic young, ageworthy Cab? Here it is. Totally immature, because of the tight tannins. Completely dry. Lots of fresh sweet oak. Not drinkable at all now, but what a core of fruit. Huge blackberry, cherry and cassis flavors, just waiting to emerge, and they will. Hold until 2010, then drink for a decade.
— S.H.
(2/1/2007)
The vineyard is in the foothills above Mondavi, and the wine is marked by the authoritative tannic structure that usually marks Cabs from this neighborhood. Rich in pure cassis, there’s a dusty, locked-down quality and a sandpapery astringency that suggests aging. This is a very fine wine and should drink well in a few years and then hold through 2014 or so.
— S.H.
(8/1/2006)
Young, taut and dense now, with edgy tannins that will reward cellaring. With its core of cherry, blackberry and cedary cassis, it’s likely to hold and improve for a decade.
— S.H.
(5/1/2005)
Made in a drier, earthier style than most Oakville Cabs, this one emphasizes structure over fruity power. It’s a sleek, elegant wine, brimming with tannins and acids that frame blackberry, currant, mineral and dried herb flavors, with a touch of raisins in the finish.
— S.H.
(2/1/2010)
Tannic and dry, this juvenile Cab needs time to come around. It’s quite good, with a firm structure and earthy flavors of black currants, plums and sage, and a touch of bitterness. Hold until after 2010.
— S.H.
(12/31/2008)
A disappointment after the rich 2005. They should have declassified this vintage. The wine is dry and sharp, with green, sharp acids and modest berry, currant and herb flavors.
— S.H.
(2/1/2010)