There’s a fleshy quality to this Cabernet that makes the term fluffy appropriate. It’s rich and dry, with voluptuous flavors of blackberries, black currants and cedar, as well as a touch of umami, dark chocolate and smoked meat. The tannins are fairly potent, suggesting 5–7 years in the cellar.
— S.H.
(10/1/2011)
If the name of this wine suggests that it’s comforting to drink now, it’s perfectly apt. Although it hails from Oakville, whose Cabernets are among the most ageable in Napa Valley, this shows an accessibility that makes the black currant and cedar flavors immediately appealing.
— S.H.
(10/1/2012)
Tough tannins give this wine a kick. It’s like rubbing sandpaper on the tongue, but there’s a brilliantly ripe core of blackberries, cherries and blackberry liqueur. Oak adds richer levels of caramel and vanilla. Not clear if it will age well, so drink soon after a few hours decanting.
— S.H.
(10/1/2011)
Satisfies the basic Port requirements of sweetness, firm tannins and crisp acidity. Quite good in blackberry, black currant liqueur and chocolate flavors. Needs an extra layer of richness and complexity, though.
— S.H.
(12/15/2010)
Marked by extreme dryness and tannic astringency, this 100% Syrah might benefit from time in the cellar, although there can be no guarantees with an unknown producer. It has a good core of black currants, black pepper and baker’s chocolate. Try after 2009.
— S.H.
(12/1/2008)
Feels tough and leathery, like beef jerky, with background notes of blackberries, blueberries and smoky cedar. But it’s very dry, and there’s a certain nobility of structure. Could well age. Try toward the end of 2010.
— S.H.
(12/15/2009)
This is a very dry, richly textured Cabernet, vast in blackberry, black currant and cedar flavors, with the smooth, complex tannins Oakville is known for. However, there’s a noticeable sharpness to the mouthfeel that may never go away.
— S.H.
(12/15/2010)
Solid blackberry, black currant, bacon, black pepper and sandalwood flavors in this dry wine. The grapes come from a small appellation in Mendocino County. It’s too soft, lacking structure, but has a certain opulence.
— S.H.
(12/15/2010)