At eighteen years, this is likely at the apex of its drinking window, not likely to improve with further age, but should drink well for several more years to come. The fill level, label, foil, and most importantly, the cork, were pristine. Dark garnet colored, complex and concentrated blackberry fruits with notes of cassis, licorice, vanilla, bitter chocolate and cedar, turning to full dusty tannins on the long bold finish. https://unwindwine.blogspot.com/2023/09/ladera-howell-mtn-cabernet-with-beef.html
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As my first Ladera wine, this well-preserved bottle exceeded my expectations. Nose was slightly muted but pleasant. Lots of both red and black fruit remaining and significant tannins hanging out in the glass, with plenty of structure. This tasted more like a 2012, and I think this could’ve gone another few years at a minimum. However, I should’ve heeded the prior CT note and decanted for much longer than I did (<30 min).
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9/11/2023 - rmcnees Likes this wine: 93 Points
At eighteen years, this is likely at the apex of its drinking window, not likely to improve with further age, but should drink well for several more years to come. The fill level, label, foil, and most importantly, the cork, were pristine.
Dark garnet colored, complex and concentrated blackberry fruits with notes of cassis, licorice, vanilla, bitter chocolate and cedar, turning to full dusty tannins on the long bold finish.
https://unwindwine.blogspot.com/2023/09/ladera-howell-mtn-cabernet-with-beef.html
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3/26/2022 - cheitmann wrote: 94 Points
Rich dark cherry and licorice, still vibrant. Probably could go another 2 years
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10/13/2021 - GulfIslandPond Likes this wine: 92 Points
As my first Ladera wine, this well-preserved bottle exceeded my expectations. Nose was slightly muted but pleasant. Lots of both red and black fruit remaining and significant tannins hanging out in the glass, with plenty of structure. This tasted more like a 2012, and I think this could’ve gone another few years at a minimum. However, I should’ve heeded the prior CT note and decanted for much longer than I did (<30 min).
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3/20/2021 - Halfeel Likes this wine: 92 Points
Improved over a few days in the decanter.
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11/28/2019 - JGirl wrote: 89 Points
Tony & Joan picked this over the 2008. Other 5 picked 2008.
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