A beautifully balanced wine, framed in plush, ripe, velvety tannins and backed by lush, black cherry, plum, blackberry, spice, herb and chocolate flavors. Gloriously complex, seamless in its elegance, the wine is packed with charm and personality; long on the finish.
— J.M.
(6/1/2002)
Put this Cabernet in the cellar for a while. It’s dry and very tannic, yet dramatically rich in blackberries, currants, anise biscotti and smoky oak. A complex, classically structured young wine that should develop through 2018.
— S.H.
(7/1/2011)
Kicks off with gobs of chocolate and spice aromas, then fans out to reveal layers of black currant, blackberry, coffee, herb and spice flavors. A touch of acidity accentuates the tannins, but the wine is richly textured, full bodied and delightful nonetheless. Full, ripe and distinctive.
— J.M.
(8/1/2003)
A thick, dark Merlot, cloaked in smooth, fat tannins and redolent of cherry, licorice, blackberry, plum, spice, coffee, sage, thyme and hints of orange peel. Long and sleek, with toasty oak on the finish. Just a hint of tartness at the end, but still a terrific wine.
— J.M.
(8/1/2003)
Enormously rich and decadent, but supple. Shows a fat, fleshy mouthfeel framing lush flavors of black and red currants, cherry pie filling, mocha and cedar. There’s a firm minerality and tannic backbone that provide structural balance. Drink now through 2010.
— S.H.
(6/1/2009)
This dark, dramatic young wine was a tasters’ favorite. Well-extracted, with huge flavors of black cherry, blueberry, coffee, tar, spice and herbs, its robust tannins suggest ageability. But it’s so ripe and sweet in fruit, it’s exciting to drink now.
— W.E.
(4/1/2003)
Dark, big, soft, extracted and a little sweet, with high alcohol. That’s the style this Petite Sirah is made in. You either like it or you don’t. Shows massive flavors of black cherries, raspberry pie filling and smoky, spicy oak.
— S.H.
(7/1/2011)
Dry, tannic and acidic, with some green minty flavors. Shows a sharpness and lack of generosity despite some good blackberry fruit and oak notes. Ready now.
— S.H.
(7/1/2011)