This bottle was a special gift a number of years ago from the warden for a personal achievement which required 9 years of effort. I wasn't sure when we'd drink it so I tucked it away. This Christmas seemed liked a good occasion.
The first thing that jumped out at me was the earthy tannins. Hey, look at that, dusty Rutherford tannins. Seems as though the oak has integrated compared to all the earlier notes but itmstill shows as creamy vanilla and light toast. Dark berries and red/black currant. Extremely enjoyable flavor combination and balance. A bit of drying on the finish.
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Tried this at a family gathering. Reddish purple color. Oak & Dark fruits on the nose. Rich, full bodied wine with enough acidity that this wine should do well with food (had 1/2 a glass). Tar, plum, dark cherry & cassis on the palate. Long finish. Smooth tannins. Great blend of Bordeaux complexity with California Fruit. Did not get to try with food but should go well given the fruit / acid balance. Excellent wine.
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12/26/2015 - brigcampbell wrote:
This bottle was a special gift a number of years ago from the warden for a personal achievement which required 9 years of effort. I wasn't sure when we'd drink it so I tucked it away. This Christmas seemed liked a good occasion.
The first thing that jumped out at me was the earthy tannins. Hey, look at that, dusty Rutherford tannins. Seems as though the oak has integrated compared to all the earlier notes but itmstill shows as creamy vanilla and light toast. Dark berries and red/black currant. Extremely enjoyable flavor combination and balance. A bit of drying on the finish.
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12/10/2013 - Acohen Likes this wine: 90 Points
Well made Bordeaux blend with good red fruit, cassis and integrated tannins. Slightly drying on the midpalate and medium finish
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6/18/2011 - wineduggery wrote: 92 Points
A big, beautiful, fruity, oaky California Cab blend. Not for everyone, but one of my favorite values when I'm in the mood. Simple and unpretentious.
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5/21/2010 - RobertDwyer Likes this wine: 93 Points
A bit of an oak monster but a legitimately big, delicious and opulent wine once you get past that.
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11/26/2009 - CWilliam wrote: 92 Points
Tried this at a family gathering. Reddish purple color. Oak & Dark fruits on the nose. Rich, full bodied wine with enough acidity that this wine should do well with food (had 1/2 a glass). Tar, plum, dark cherry & cassis on the palate. Long finish. Smooth tannins. Great blend of Bordeaux complexity with California Fruit. Did not get to try with food but should go well given the fruit / acid balance. Excellent wine.
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