2009 Rivers-Marie Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley -- 305 cases produced, 14.5% alcohol, 50% new French oak

The 12 barrel blend this year is 25% Oakville, 42% St Helena and 33% Spring Mountain from the Baconbrook Vineyard. The Spring Mountain component definitely helps the wine standout in the lineup giving it a more brooding, black-fruited quality that dominates the nose and palate entry. Elements of cassis, creosote, blackberries and menthol dominate the wine early with a sweeter fruited valley floor flavor profile taking over on the mid-palate and finish. The good early grip is replaced by racy high-toned red fruits which give the wine freshness and help prolong the finish. This wine might actually have the greatest complexity of the three right now due to the blend. It does also have some structure which will require some cellaring to absorb.

Edit this Article