There’s lots to admire in this well-ripened, elegant dinner wine. It has aromas of green olives, white chocolate, and plums, with a waft of smoky oak, while the flavors are spicy and fruity. Bone-dry, it’s richly tannic and complex, with depth and interest.
— S.H.
(6/1/2002)
This is the best California Malbec I have ever tasted. It has the weight and richness of a fine Napa Cab, with finely ground tannins, and the flavors range from blackberries, blueberries and currants to sweet leather and wild, Provençal herbs and lavender. Now–2012.
— S.H.
(12/15/2009)
A young, tannic wine that needs some time in the bottle to come around. Beneath the firm tannins are fleshy, olivaceous notes of blackberries, black cherries, mocha and oak. Seems balanced enough for development over the next six years.
— S.H.
(6/1/2011)
Pretty tannic now, with plenty of grip and dust, but underneath is luscious blackberry, black cherry and cassis fruit. The wine is bone-dry, with lovely acidity. Its pedigree shows in its long, rich finish. Best after 2002, but pretty and elegant now.
— S.H.
(6/1/2002)
Based on Cabernet Sauvignon, this Bordeaux blend shows a lovely structure, and ripe black currant and fruit, tarted up with toasty oak. It’s dry and balanced and complex. This is a great price for a Napa Cab of this quality.
— S.H.
(11/1/2006)
Tough and gritty. The tannins are upfront, and the fruit is all primary blackberries and cherries, sweetened with oak. Ripe and rich, but lacks immediate charm and elegance. Could do very well in the bottle beyond 2012.
— S.H.
(12/15/2009)
Dry, but with some overripe notes, this Cabernet has aromas and flavors of raisins, blackberries, cassis, dark chocolate and oak. The tannins are rich and smooth. Seems best now, after a decant.
— S.H.
(6/1/2011)
An easy Merlot for drinking now despite the firm tannins. Shows cherry, raisin, red licorice, cola and bacon flavors that finish just a bit sweet. Let it breathe for an hour or two before serving.
— S.H.
(6/1/2011)