March 15, 2020 - - Brick color with medium forming legs - Last 02 went down tonight. Definitely still good, past its prime. Cork surprisingly came out in one piece with lots of care. Not much fruit left, but soft and full all the same. Still have some 97 I really need to finish
June 27, 2019 - Opened and decanted a 6L bottle that we purchased as result of a Schweiger wine dinner in SC probably in 2005. It had been properly cellared ever since. Have to admit that I opened the bottle with some trepidation, not only because to the age of the wine but also the work that goes into opening a 6L bottle. The wax came off cleaning after some sawing with a serrated knife and a bit of prying. I used an Ah So wine opener and, following a few efforts, was able to twist the cork out in one piece. The cork was supple and showed no signs of leakage. The wine itself was quite nice with the softness that comes with age yet still sufficient fruit. Overall, it exceeded our expectations. While this bottle waited for a special occasion and a fairly sizable group, I wouldn't let this wine - in any size bottle - wait much longer before consuming it. I don't see it improving with more age.
December 26, 2018 - The 2002 was not drinking as well as the 2001. Tried them one day apart. This vintage seems a little dead now. Consumed half, pumped the rest for tmrw. Will see how it does with a touch more time open.
February 6, 2016 - An enjoyable bottle. Must note that the glass started more flavorful and appealing than it ended--tannins kicked in the door and arrested the fruit.
May 10, 2013 - Drinking great right now. Enjoyed a bottle at bocce this week!
October 7, 2012 - One of the crowd favorites last night. Aged beautifully and drinking very nice. Eucalyptus, new French oak, boysenberry blackberry and a hint of pomegranate. Vanilla and silky tannins. Yummy.
February 21, 2012 - Fully mature at this point. Still has nice fruit and real structure. A bit muted on the mid and end palate. Would definitely say drink what you have. No bricking yet but think within 2 years it's a goner. Not bad but missing that special Spring Mountain character.
August 1, 2011 - Very soft and approachable cab. Maybe missing that n'th degreee of complexity but very pleasant all the same.
May 21, 2011 - Vibrant dark garnet red. Muted nose. Enormous chocolate notes. Plums dipped in chocolate. Served by Tim Sinclair at his dinner party.
October 1, 2010 - Very Spring Mountain. Lots of herbs and eucalyptus on the palate with the earthy tannins to balance the ripre fruit - very similar to many spring mountain cabs. Almost like a second label of Marston or something like that. But it never quite comes together despite the nice interesting earthy tannins that make it seem like it could be really good. Instead, doesn't really improve with more air. Unfortunate, had potential. 88-89.