mature brick red, aged cassis, soft spice notes, on the palate a delicate and slightly sweet Cabernet at full maturity with genteel cassis notes and just a bit of beetroot, I have always found 1988 to be an attractive and understated vintage in California- but not one with the potential for a terribly long life, with that perspective this was a pleasant surprise- its superb balance still carries it well and while I would advise drinking soon there is still some old school beauty here, best enjoyed with a savory meal at this point- on its own where it can contribute to a harmonious and relaxed setting.
***, drink up
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9/17/2021 - GraffCellar Likes this wine: 91 Points
Alive sand kicking at 33 years old!
Hints of brick underlying medium purple color.
Abundant fruit for a 1988.
Good structure and acidity (still).
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9/16/2021 - Elpaninaro Likes this wine:
mature brick red, aged cassis, soft spice notes, on the palate a delicate and slightly sweet Cabernet at full maturity with genteel cassis notes and just a bit of beetroot, I have always found 1988 to be an attractive and understated vintage in California- but not one with the potential for a terribly long life, with that perspective this was a pleasant surprise- its superb balance still carries it well and while I would advise drinking soon there is still some old school beauty here, best enjoyed with a savory meal at this point- on its own where it can contribute to a harmonious and relaxed setting.
***, drink up
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