December 12, 2016 - This bottle needed to be opened many years ago.
February 27, 2016 - Decanted and tasted at 0, 30 and 60 mins; I actually think it was at its best at opening, c/w the drink by dates suggesting it was over the hill a little bit.
Very slight bricking, modest sediment; nose is pencil lead, maybe a little leather, hint of plum; palate is well balanced, mild tannins, nice mouth feel; finish is pleasant but unremarkable; I would recommend drinking whatever you have now; I don't believe this is going to get better from here
January 13, 2012 - The color was solid, no noticeable bricking. Cherry on the nose, with some dust and cocoa. This wine was a surprise: tannins resolved, acidity in check, paired well with a turkey meatloaf. Not a bruiser but not dead to the world, either. Last bottle.
January 24, 2003 - Seattle Tasting Group 1997 and older California Meritage (Sammamish, WA, USA): Coffee, cocoa puffs (yes, sweet and crunchy like the cereal), and black fruit on the nose. Lovely fruit and solid tannins, nice grip on the palate.
February 28, 1998 - Grgich Tasting at Bevmo with Mike Grgich. dusty, fruity, slightly hot nose, great rich cabernet taste, well balanced, touch of herbs, long fruity finish, very soft tannins on the finish.
January 30, 1998 - very old-world style; thinner & more astringent