| Year | Wine | Variety | Location | Price | Num | Rating |
| 2001 | Anderson's Conn Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve | Cabernet | 7A6-8 | 65 | 3 | 94rp |
| 94rp Napa Valley, California Anderson's Conn Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a great 2001 vintage Napa Cab that will last for over 20 years Anderson's Conn Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a great 2001 vintage Napa Cab that will last for over 20 years. The much-awaited 2001 Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa are finally here, and this is one of the finest yet. This wine just earned an incredible 94 RATING from Robert Parker. In his estimation, this appears to be one of the finest Cabernet Reserves produced since the mid 90’s. Additional comments are: “EXPLOSIVE FINISH, COMPLEX AROMAS OF CEDAR, SPICE AND EARTH. A DRY RED FOR DECADES TO COME.” |
| 2001 | Andrew Geoffrey | Cabernet | 9D4-5 | 80 | 2 | 92we |
| 92 points and a "Cellar Selection" from Wine Enthusiast: "Diamond Mountain District Cabs always are very tannic, and so is this one, but it should reward cellaring. It’s well-oaked, with balancing acids and a tremendous core of blackberry and currant fruit that penetrates the palate and lasts through the finish. Combines power and finesse. Drink now-2015." (6/1/2005) Firm, dark, rich and concentrated, with intense, chewy tannins that match up well with layers of earthy currant, coffee, mint, blackberry, cedar, anise and spice. This is a big, expressive, intense wine that can be enjoyed now and should improve for the next several years. But the tannins may be an issue, so if you buy a few bottles, taste one early to judge for yourself. Best from 2005 through 2012. 1,367 cases made. " WS - 91 pts |
| 2002 | Arger Martucci Vineyards | Cabernet | 3B4 | 53 | 1 | |
| Located not far from the bustling town of St. Helena, Arger Martucci is a small country winery once known as Villa Helena, a winery famous from years past. The owners, a doctor and a banker and their wives, are actually from Reno, Nevada, but in a few short years they seem to have found themselves completely in-step with the cadence of Napa. |
| 2004 | August Briggs Monte Rosso | Cabernet | 7D1 | 55 | 1 | 93cp |
| 93cp The 2004 vintage represents August Briggs' fourth release of this famous vineyard designated Cabernet Sauvignon. Due to a moderate crop level and warm ripening season this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is dark purple in color & full-bodied with deep fruit flavors of blackberry & plum, as well as, aromatic hints of smoky oak & chocolate in the nose. This wine is big and drinkable now, but age worthy for many years. Definitely a Mountain Cabernet! |
| 1999 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6B11 | 90 | 1 | 91w&s |
| 91w&s Nearly opaque black ruby-violet color. Pronounced, herbal, licorice-vanilla and dark cherry aromas, fragrant and explosive intensity. Definite clone 6 influence!, almost dark and earthy. Full-bodied, with a thick chewy texture, ripe black and red fruits, firm but supple tannins and no sense of jamminess or over-ripeness. Ripe tannins and solid acidity provide underpinning. Hints of licorice and mineral, as well as bittersweet cocoa, show up in the very long finish. This wine has high fruit intensity combined with strong structure to insure extended aging up to two decades from vintage, and should be the longest aging Private Reserve of the 1990’s.Best served: Now-2015 (This wine was not part of the tasting with Joel Butler and James Suckling) Nearly opaque black ruby-violet color. Pronounced, herbal, licorice-vanilla and dark cherry aromas, fragrant and explosive intensity. Definite clone 6 influence. Full-bodied, with a thick chewy texture, ripe black and red fruits, firm but supple tannins and no sense of jamminess or over-ripeness. Ripe tannins and solid acidity provide underpinning. Hints of licorice and mineral, as well as bittersweet cocoa, show up in the very long finish. This wine has high fruit intensity combined with strong structure to insure extended aging up to two decades from vintage, and should be the longest aging Private Reserve of the 1990’s. |
| 2000 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6B10 | 75 | 1 | 92we |
| 92we Dark, black-ruby color. The aromas reflect classic ""Rutherford dust"" notes of black cherry, loamy mineral-earth tones, and licorice, along with fine new oak vanilla highlights. Medium full-bodied, with deep cherry-mineral, currant - anise flavors, this vintage has a fine veneer of tannins combined with good acidity to support 10-15 years aging. Rich, supple fruit softens the texture. The sweet fragrance and taste of vanilla from the new oak add measurable length and structure in the finish. A fine wine to drink young with grilled steaks, roast leg of lamb with shallots, or a ripe wedge of Fontina or aged Vermont cheddar cheese. |
| 2001 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6B9 | 85 | 1 | 93we |
| 93we Wine Enthusiast says "Classic Georges, balanced and ageworthy, yet riper and lusher than any Private Reserve in memory. Magnificently ripe fruit, rich in currants and cocoa, well-oaked, with sweet, complex tannins. Doesn’t try to out-wow the competition in power, but the equilibrium is its strong point. Now through 2015. Cellar Selection. 93 Points." |
| 2002 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6A7-6B8 | 90 | 13 | 95wn |
| 95wn Beaulieu Vineyard, 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve, Napa Valley Purple-black hue. Direct, dusty aromas of mixed berries, mocha and cedar make for a tight, nervy nose. Layered, chalky, youthful flavors of brambly blackberry, tobacco, chocolate and well-meshed wood. Chocolate and dust highlight the smooth finish. $95 / 9,500 cases 92cg 92we 90w&s This much esteemed label has seen its share of ups and downs over the years, but the stuff in the bottle in 2002 is the best we have seen in a good many. Its close-to-classic nose of currants and dust and pencil-lead spice gives way to complex and wonderfully deep varietal flavors that marry generous fruit with lovely oak and flashes of minerals and loam. It is firmed by ample tannins to finish, but its fruit refuses to quit, and, what is a most impressive wine even now, will only get better over the next eight to ten years." 92 points - Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine, August 2005 Dark, black-ruby color. The aromas reflect classic "Rutherford dust" notes of black cherry, loamy mineral-earth tones, and licorice, along with fine new oak vanilla highlights. Medium full-bodied, with deep cherry-mineral, currant –anise flavors, this vintage has a fine veneer of tannins combined with good acidity to support 10-15 years aging. Rich, supple fruit softens the texture. The sweet fragrance and taste of vanilla from the new oak add measurable length and structure in the finish. A fine wine to drink young with grilled steaks, roast leg of lamb with shallots, or a ripe wedge of Fontina or aged Vermont cheddar cheese. From Winery.. Aging Potential:10-25 years |
| 2003 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6A1-6 | 90 | 6 | 95ww |
| 95 PTS WILFRED WONG. A remarkable young Cabernet, stately '03 Beaulieu Georges de Latour has everything going for it; fine fruit, sophistication, and tremendous balance; red fruit with oak accents W&S 91 Georges de Latour is the classic, original Reserve California wine. Aged 20 months in oak, it reflects many decades' experience with our historic vineyards in Napa. Hand-harvested fruit, whole berries, careful but vigorous extraction during fermentation and gentle handling throughout provide a wine for the ages. This wine is nearly opaque black-ruby color with purple highlights. The aromas show strength of black fruits, licorice, black pepper and minerals, with Rutherford accents of black olive, peppercorn and dark cherry. Full-bodied in texture, this wine has pronounced, dense and concentrated flavors of black currant, anise, sweet vanilla and distinctive minerality. The rich tannins are balanced by medium acidity providing freshness. Deeply full of character, this vintage will require 7 to 9 years aging to reach maturity, yet tastes fine now; it is an excellent example of the vintage. WS92-94 One of the best of the tasting, this rich, well-balanced wine exhibits plenty of gusto, with complex currant, blackberry, mineral and cedary oak, finishing with a firm wall of ripe, integrated tannins. One of the bigger ’03s we have tasted! Decant this wine way ahead. Black licorice, spice, red cherry and cola hints jump from the glass. This wine is balanced yet sturdy and should age well in a cellar over the next 10+ years! |
| 2001 | B.V. Tapestry | Red Wine | 6C2 | 45 | 1 | 92we |
| 92we ""A lovely wine, one that winemaker Joel Aiken says is more accessible than Private Reserve, but the tannins suggest ageability. Rich and full-bodied, with black currant, chocolate, coffee and herb flavors. With a steak, it's fine now, but will develop easily for many years. A blend of four Bordeaux varieties." The Tapestry has always been the wine to enjoy now while the Private Reserve gets put into the cellar. This theory still works in ‘01 but I would definitely decant the Tapestry this year. The wine is rich, deep and concentrated with flavors of coffee, minerals and black currant. It should be at its best with a few more years in the bottle but can be enjoyed tonight with some air. (Trey Beffa, Domestic Buyer) |
| 2002 | B.V. Tapestry | Red Wine | 6C1 | 50 | 1 | 90we |
| 750ml, California - Deep dark ruby in color, the aromas reflect classic Rutherford notes of black cherry and currant, with licorice, loam and dried herb components. The wine is medium to full bodied with layered flavors of dark berries, currants, cherries, slate, anise and vanilla. Winemaker's Notes. Score WE 90 Rich oak and ripeness are met with a broad measure of sweet black cherry fruit first in the aromas and then in the deep, well-composed flavors of this solid, moderately full-bodied offering. There is a puckery edge of latter-palate tannins still to be resolved, but the wine's considerable fruit carries well even at the finish, and a wait of some four to six years seems the sure prescription for genuine success. Biggest Tapestry Yet!: This has always been made in a true crowd pleasing style year after year. With this particular rendition, BV has pumped up the volume on the fruit and power of this muscular beast. Primarily sourced from Rutherford Cabernet and aged in a mix of French and American oak, this shows ripe black cherry aromas mixed with toasty coffee. Elements of black olive and dark cocoa blend in nicely with cherry-plum and vanilla spice. This all blends together very nicely on the finish. Dark ruby in color, the Tapestry’s aromas evoke scents of black cherry, herbs, vanilla-oak and some black pepper. Medium-full bodied, the wine’s fruit flavors are at the forefront; cherry and blackcurrant, followed by nuances of licorice, dark chocolate and peppercorn. Fleshy yet backed by firm, ripe tannins, the finish shows some torrefaction notes from the oak now, but should evolve gracefully with 4-7 years in the bottle. |
| 1998 | Balnnaves Coonawarra | Cabernet | 8B4-5 | 30 | 2 | 94jh |
| 94 James Halliday 91 ws |
| 2003 | Barbour Vineyards | Cabernet | 2B7 | 143 | 1 | 95bd |
| 95brown derby Classic California Cabernet Sauvignon! Ripe fruit, with great character and structure, make this wine a pleasure to drink now, although it definitely has the potential to cellar for a decade or two. From Jim Barbour, ace vineyard manager and owner, and winemaker Heidi Peterson Barrett, this wine has everything going for it---except reviews from the big names! Only 285 cases of the 2003 vintage were produced. --- Scott Gargus, Wine Club Advisor. 93vf The nose shows rich shadings of nectarine, currant, and spicy chocolate mole. The palate is rich and smooth with roasted currant, chocolate, and anise pod. |
| 2003 | Barlow | Cabernet | WB | 25 | 6 | 91we |
| 91we Deep in aroma, in flavor, in depth and finish, this Cabernet fulfills your Napa Cab expectations. The mouthfeel is all velvet and silk, the tannins are perfectly sculpted, and the blackberry and coffee flavors are ripe and satisfying without being overwrought. Best now and for a decade. 87cg Both of the Barlow bottlings owe much to ripeness, and both have plenty of weight, but this one is built with a sturdier spine of varietal tannins and gives a little more play to finishing heat. It is and will remain on the rustic side of the Cabernet spectrum, and it requires five or six years of softening before reaching its rugged best. OBA$45.00 The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma is even better than the 2002, although more muscular, concentrated, and fuller-bodied without the charm of the 2002. Performing better out of bottle than it did from barrel, its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by wonderful cassis fruit. Enjoy it over the next 10-15 years. |
| 2000 | Barlow Cabernet | Cabernet | 1B11 | 36 | 1 | 93ws |
| 93wsThe 2000 vintage marks another great growing season in the Napa Valley. The 2000 Cabernet was bottled Sept. 5th 2002, with a production of 400 cases and released 9/1/2003. It has received a 90 from the Wine Enthusiast. Big and ripe, the purple hue speaks to the extraction of color from exceptional ripe fruit. Aromatically the wine speaks Cabernet, with its sweet cherry aroma and classic rum raisin, the wine is never over shadowed by oak. The palate is rich and ripe with a sweet supple core that extends into a lengthy well balanced finish. 92cg This substantial wine serves as further proof that success can be had in a difficult vintage. It is ripe, well-fruited and very long on extract, and its mix of tactile flesh and firming tannins strikes us as just about right. Like any serious Cabernet, however, it needs a bit of patient cellaring to reach its full potential, and, if four to five years would be a good idea, eight to ten would seem to be the better choice yet. 89rp From an upper end Napa Valley estate located north of St. Helena and south of Calistoga, this is an excellent 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, a year that produced a huge majority of duds. Barlow's offering exhibits a deep ruby/purple color as well as a sweet nose of black fruits and subtle creamy oak. Supple-textured and medium bodied, with admirable purity as well as texture (an anomaly for 2000 Cabernet), it can be drunk now or cellared for 7-8 years. Readers should check out this winery, particularly given the high quality of the 2001 and 2002 vintages in Northern California. we90 Made in a classic Napa style, with pronounced aromas of cassis and black currant and considerable layering of |
| 2004 | Beau Vigne Reserve | Cabernet | 3A5 | 50 | 1 | |
| 2004 Beau Vigne Cabernet Sauvignon Juliet is soft with a delicate balance. The reserveCabernet Sauvignon, bold with tobacco leaf, cocoa and black cherry. Merlot, rich fruit flavors of cherry blackberry and plum. Petit Verdot, spicy, velvety and smooth. A very well put together wine – Dave Phinney (Orin Swift) strikes gold again Blend of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Cabernet provides bold flavors of tobacco leaf, cocoa and black cherry. Merlot offers rich fruit Dark, rich and seductive style layered with a pointed entry. Aromas of cedar, tobacco leaf and crème de cassis. Centered with black cherry, blackberry, mocha and spice. The woven plush texture has a balance of fruit, acid and tannins that contribute to a long velvet finish. Full bodied and well endowed this cabernet sauvignon should age nicely for 10-12 years. 2004 Beau Vigne Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 100% cuvee of Cabernet Sauvignon has an opaque purple color, a gorgeously pure nose of spring flowers intermixed with black currant liqueur, licorice, and some subtle background oak. Quite powerful, rich, but at the same time elegant, as one would expect from Stags Leap, this is a terrific effort that should drink well for 20+ years.– Dave Phinney (Orin Swift) strikes gold again! This is a California Wine. |
| 2000 | Bell Clone 6 | Cabernet | 1A11 | 150 | 1 | 92 |
| 4stars decanter mag. gold medal LA county fair 2008-2016 2000 vintage is deep ruby in color, with dense, concentrated flavors.The long, cool growing season resulted in bright fruit flavors and the long hang time allowed the fruit to develop full flavor maturity. On the palate concentrated fruit flavors are balanced with crisp acidity, firm yet supple tannins and undertones of toasted French oak, leading to a lingering, rich finish. The wine’s exquisite balance continues the sophisticated, elegant, Bordeaux style associated with prior releases. Excellent today, the wine will certainly reward those with the patience to cellar it. |
| 2003 | Bennett Lane | Cabernet | 9B5 | 42 | 1 | 91 |
| 91ws Ripe and fleshy, with rich succulent layers of currant, anise, blackberry and black cherry fruit supported by hints of chicory-laced oak and firm yet ripe tannins. Best from 2007 through 2012. 2,000 cases made. –JL |
| 2003 | Benzinger Tribute | Red Wine | 11C3 | 70 | 1 | 93rp |
| 93rp "this effort reveals exuberant, extroverted notes of crème de cassis, graphite, smoke, and earth. Full-bodied and opulently-textured, with loads of concentration, this is a brilliant red to drink young or cellar for 10-15 years." RP |
| 2005 | Beresan | Cabernet | 6D6 | 35 | 1 | |
| 100% cabernet |
| 1996 | Beringer Founders Estate 3ltr | Merlot | display | 50 | 1 | |
| Gift from Cassie (wine rep) (display don't drink ) |
| 1995 | Beringer Private Reserve | Cabernet | 5D11 | 130 | 1 | 95we |
| 95we A dazzling wine. Bursts with black-currant, plum, blackberry, tobacco, and olivaceous notes, and fine, toasty oak. Superb concentration; the fruit is simply fabulous, and so are the luscious, warm, silky tannins. Epitomizes class and elegance. — S.H. (7/1/2000) 93 points Robert Parker: "The 1995 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve is a full-bodied, explosively rich, deep purple-colored wine bursting with ripe fruit. It displays smoky oak, gobs of cassis, a touch of cigar box and cedar, and a layered, multi-dimensional feel. This voluptuous, seductive offering is already drinking well, yet should age effortlessly for 15-20 years." (12/98) A tightly wound wine from a classic vintage, with a firm band of cedar and spice wrapped around a core of ripe plum, blackberry and black cherry. It fans out to reveal hints of olive and smoke, firming on the finish. Best from 2002 through 2011. 15,000 cases made. |
| 1997 | Beringer Private Reserve | Cabernet | 5D10 | 140 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp Here are 15,000 cases of the 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve. Composed of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc, and aged in 100% new French oak for 22-24 months, it is a sensational effort. The opaque plum/purple color is followed by a superb nose of smoked herbs, melted licorice, and black currant jam. Full-bodied, with a silky texture, and an opulent personality, this sexy, full-throttle Cabernet Sauvignon will be delicious young, yet last for 18-20 years. Reviewer Wine Advocate Robert Parker 94 points. Full red-ruby. Superripe aromas of plum, strawberry, tobacco and loam. Fat, thick, sweet and deep, with the wine huge weight gracefully supported by firm underlying backbone. A superripe, extremely long cabernet of great richness and depth. Built to age but showing spectacularly already. 93we Creamy blackberry, cassis, toasty oak and vanilla aromas lead off. This elegant wine is loaded with additional flavors redolent of licorice, tobacco, spice and dense berries. It's all couched in supple, velvety tannins. Long and lush at the end. — S.H. (12/31/2001) |
| 1999 | Beringer Private Reserve | Cabernet | 5D9 | 100 | 1 | 93ws |
| 92-95st Ruby-red. Highly nuanced nose combines currant, plum, smoky oak, minerals, licorice and mint. Wonderfully sweet, sappy and dense. The most complex of these '99 cabernets, with enticing flavors of currant, minerals and brown spices. Very long, slow-building finish features big but sweet and fine tannins. Suave and impressive. Complex aromas of currant, herb, tobacco, olive andcedar lead to similar flavors in a rich, concentrated yet elegant presentation. Turns smooth and creamy, with vanilla, mocha and blackberry flavors peeking through on the finish. Best from 2005 through 2014. 10,000 cases made Wine Spectator 93 points (Jun 15 2004) "In what has become the classic PR style, this wine is showing well young, with flamboyant aromas of toasty oak backed by concentrated, pure flavors of black currants. It's rich and smooth enough to drink now, yet powerful and intense enough to age." August 2003 Score: 91. March 31, 2006 Robert Parker: The dark ruby/purple-colored 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve exhibits a sweet, Bordeaux-influenced bouquet of tobacco, cedar wood, spice box, and black currants. It is moderately tannic, medium-bodied, and firm in the finish. Patience will be required. The cooler growing climate is clearly evident when tasting this wine. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2014 91we what has become the classic PR style, this wine is showing well young, with flamboyant aromas of toasty oak backed by concentrated, pure flavors of black currants. It's rich and smooth enough to drink now, yet powerful and intense enough to age." August 2003 Score: 91. March 31, 2006. |
| 2000 | Beringer Third Century Limited Release | Cabernet | 11D4 | 72 | 1 | 88st |
| 87-89st Red-ruby. Varietally accurate aromas of blackcurrant, tobacco, minerals, menthol and shoe polish. Penetrating flavors of medicinal blue fruits and shoe polish, with a saline suggestion of soil. Finishes firm, minerally and long. This is good for the year |
| 2001 | Betz "Pere de Famille" | Cabernet | 1B8-9 | 69 | 2 | 94ws |
| WS 94 points, Rich, densely packed and powerful, a lively mouthful of plum, blueberry and exotic spice flavors that last and last on the aristocratic finish. Cellar 10-15 years, will greatly reward the collector. |
| 2003 | Betz "Pere de Famille" | Cabernet | 1B6-7 | 50 | 2 | 95we |
| 95 we 93st 92rp "Classy cabernet aromas of cassis, blueberry, iodine, minerals, tar, tobacco leaf, mocha and sexy oak spices. Sweet, lush and thick; conveys a high-pH feel without coming across as heavy. The chewy, layered currant and spice flavors are perked up by a captivating minerality. Finishes with firm, broad tannins, palate-saturating fruit and terrific length. 93 points" -Steven Tanzer "The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Pere de Famille is an impressively powerful, chunky wine. Containing 13% Merlot, 8% Malbec, and 3% Petit Verdot in the blend, this medium to full-bodied wine is dense, concentrated, and deep. Its blackberry liqueur and tar flavors linger throughout its long, tannin-studded finish. Projected maturity: 2010-2022." 92 points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate #164 (APR 2006) |
| 2004 | Betz "Pere de Famille" | Cabernet | 1B4-5 | 55 | 2 | 93+st |
| “93(+?) Bright, deep ruby-red. Musky, minerally, spicy aromas of blackberry, blueberry, leather and tree bark. Quite penetrating on the palate, with terrific intensity and cut to the black cherry and currant flavors. Denser and larger-scaled than the Clos de Betz. This, too, finishes with excellent cut, growing sweeter and longer as it opens in the glass. There's firm tannic spine here but no impression of dryness.” The vineyard source for the 2004 is also more focused, with barrels only from Red Mountain and the Horse Heaven Hills in the final blend. We're used to the terrific concentration and intensity of our Red Mountain fruit (Ciel du Cheval and Klipsun Vineyards) but this vintage the Horse Heaven fruit (Alder Ridge Vineyard) was equally concentrated yet without the tannic dominance of Red Mountain. The two appellations blended seamlessly (64% to 36%) and provided a structure that is both accessible now but will cellar beyond the previous two vintages. |
| 2005 | Betz "Pere de Famille" | Cabernet | 1B2-3 | 65 | 2 | 97we |
| 97we "The fragrance is almost otherworldly; sweet, dense and lightly lifted. This is a sinewy wine, that begins with compact power and focused, tart red fruits—predominantly raspberry and currant. At first juicy and tart, with hours of breathing time the wine broadens out into a wider spectrum of Cabernet fruits; cassis, blackberry and black cherry." Cabernet Sauvignon dominates this vintage in more than percentages would indicate: color, aroma, flavor and mouthfeel all identify this wine as Cabernet Sauvignon (77%). While it blends four of the classic Bordeaux varieties (Merlot 13%, Malbec 8% and Petit Verdot 3%) it still shouts Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cabernet fraction is predominantly from Red Mountain, from the Ciel du Cheval and Klipsun Vineyards’ rows that we have used for most all the past vintages. Their power and depth contributions are unmistakable. They also provide the tannic spine essential for our goals for this wine. Their muscular ways are tamed by a fraction of the Cabernet that comes from the Alder Ridge Vineyard, located in the Horse Heaven Hills: it provides length and complexity. While the other two varieties are minor players, their contribution is distinctive: Malbec adding juiciness, and the Petit Verdot, with its black skin, adds color and a spicy/peppery fragrance. Red Mountain depth dominates the blend of all varieties at 68%, followed by 24% from the Horse Heaven Hills and 8% from the Yakima Valley. And it shows. 93+st "Good deep, bright ruby-red. Sappy aromas of crushed blackberry, licorice, minerals and spices. Wonderfully sweet but less pliant and open today than the Clos de Betz; more affected by the bottling. With aeration, this showed subtle cabernet notes of cassis, Belgian chocolate and fresh herbs. This dense, thick wine boasts outstanding structure and dimension, and finishes with terrific persistence. Betz used his highest percentage of cabernet sauvignon to date in this wine, and the lowest amount of merlot." ROBERT PARKER'S WINE ADVOCATE I had a chance to retaste the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Pere de Famille. Last year I though the wine was a bit compressed but that time would likely round it out. One year later the wine has blossomed and appears headed for a promising future. Betz Family Winery, run impeccably by Bob Betz, MW, remains a Washington benchmark for top quality Syrah and Bordeaux blends. With his connections from decades of service at Chateau Ste-Michelle, Betz is able to purchase choice fruit from some of the state's finest vineyards including Boushey, Red Willow, Ciel du Cheval, Alder Ridge, Kiona, and Klipsun. Regarding the 2006 vintage, Betz says, "I took a long time to warm up to the vintage, but the wines have come on strong." 95 Points Jay Miller, Wine Advocate, June 1, 2008 |
| 2001 | Bourassa Vineyards Harmony 3 | Red Wine | 9D6 | 100 | 1 | 94 |
| 94 gold medal,first cal state fair The sensory-stimulating flavors of the 2002 Harmony3 open up beautifully on the palate. It is a rich, lush wine with dense complexity. The young, compact, black currant and dried cherry flavors are enhanced by scents of crème brulee, caramel, slate and a hint of herb. Tastes of toasted oak, plum, and pepper are evident throughout. It is possessed of wonderful flavor, through a veneer of youthful tannins, presenting a medium long finish. This wine can be enjoyed now or will reward those who choose to cellar it for years to come. |
| 2001 | Brookdale | Cabernet | 7C10-11 | 60 | 2 | 91we |
| 91 we "should age quite well in the cellar" |
| 2003 | Brown Estate | Cabernet | 11D2 | 72 | 1 | |
| The 2003 growing season was memorable for its unpredictability. Early rain and late heat spikes resulted in lower overall yield but produced a vintage with higher qaulity,great color concentration and intense flavors. The nose shows layers of dried tobacco leaves, ground coffee beans, a dusting of Valhrona chocolate and dark fruit blossom.This wine has a phenomenal texture with very fine tannis and silky mouthfeel and dark lingonberry fruit flavors integrated with berry blossom and toasty oak.This wine has amazing structure and the expressive tannins indicate great cellaring potential.You’ll want to cellar this one. The 2003 growing season was memorable for its unpredictability. Early rain and late heat spikes resulted in a lower overall yield but produced a vintage with high quality, great color concentration , and intense flavors. The nose shows layers of dried tobacco leaves, ground coffee beans , a dusting of Valhrona chocolate , and dark fruit blossom. This wine has a phenomenal texture with very fine tannins and a silky nouthfeel and dark lingoberry fruit flavors integrated with berry blossom and toasty oak. This wine has amazing structure and the expressive tannins indicate great cellaring potential. |
| 2005 | C.Beck | Cabernet | 3A6 | 48 | 1 | |
| This is Corey Beck's wine. Corey is the wine maker for Coppola wines. Built like a Bordeaux this wine boasts of elegance. Beautiful texture, seamless personality with lush, ripe fruit, touch of earth and tons of chocolate...like a delicate chocolate truffle that just melts in your mouth! Corey Beck was born and raised in Calistoga and has been involved in wine his whole life. Grapes have been grown on his family's property since the early 1900's, and Corey learned the winemaking craft at his father's knee, during his Dad's 20 year stint as Chateau Montelena's vineyard manager. After 4 years as Montelena's cellar master and additional time as the assistant winemaker at Rubicon Estate, Corey has now released the first wine under his own name. The fruit comes from Calistoga's highly esteemed Barlow Vineyard, and its class shows in this beautiful cabernet. Rich with ripe fruit that is balanced with supple tannins and crisp acidity, the flavors are all dark plum and blackberry, with just a hint of oak. Very rare (only 188 cases made), and very special. |
| 1999 | Cafaro | Cabernet | 1A8-9 | 40 | 2 | |
| This vintage is big and bright with aromas of cherry, spice and rose petals. Adding to these aromas the sweet oak adds yet another layer to the concentration of hits youthful cabernet. Similar bright and deep flavors on the palate enhance the stylish elegance. The structure is big for long aging but accessible for enjoying now. |
| 2002 | Cafaro 375ml | Cabernet | WB | 14 | 4 | A-gn |
| grape nuts: Nose of cassis, smoke,and a touch of herbal qualities. Chewy mouthfeel, nice cassis fruit, long finish. Blend of Carneros and Spring Mtn fruit. Aroma/Taste: A-/A- The 2002 Cafaro Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon is made in the house style, seeking to marry complexity with balance to produce a wine that is rich, lush and concentrated – and, most importantly, pairs well with food. An extra year of bottle aging insures that this wine is ready to drink and enjoy now, or it can certainly be cellared and enjoyed at a later date. |
| 2000 | Cain Five | Red Wine | 6D8 | 90 | 1 | 91ws |
| It could be said that 2000 was the third in a series of “winemaker’s” vintages. But those who tried to “make” their wine conform to a standard set of expectations may have been disappointed. 2000 was not a vintage to mess with—and it shows. Paradoxically, it turns out that the best wines (of which we would like to think Cain Five is one) were allowed to make themselves. 2000 was a late year, and it was critical to dodge a few rain events to find the best days to pick. Careful selection in the vineyard, patience in choosing when to harvest, gentle macerations, and a rigorous selection at blending have brought out the best of the vintage in our 2000 Cain Five.Wine Spectator says "Tight, with firm tannins and an intense, pleasing core of coffee, chocolate, currant and berry, clamping down on the finish, where the tannins flex their muscles. Score range: 89-91 for this barrel tasting. 91 Points." "Good intensity and concentration, especially for the vintage, with vibrant currant, anise, herb and earth nuances that turn to cedar, bell pepper and tobacco. Tannins on the finish are raw and firm. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Drink now through 2010. 4,890 cases made. (JL)-WS" |
| 2000 | Cakebread Cellars | Cabernet | 10A3 | 60 | 1 | 89ws |
| 89ws Vivid, supple black cherry, blackberry and currant flavors are round and focused, with smooth, well-integrated tannins. Very complete and well made. The 2000 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon displays a dark ruby/scarlet color and a classic Napa Valley cabernet aroma of ripe black cherry and currant fruit. This is enhanced by well-integrated toast and vanilla oak tones. The wine’s rich, elegant, blackberry, cassis and plum flavors are beautifully structured by ripe, round tannins and persist through a long, fruit-filled finish. Enticing now, this lovely red will continue developing for 5-8 years and will age well up to 12. The 2000 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon displays a dark ruby/scarlet color and a classic Napa Valley cabernet aroma of ripe black cherry and currant fruit. This is enhanced by well-integrated toast and vanilla oak tones. The wine’s rich, elegant, blackberry, cassis and plum flavors are beautifully structured by ripe, round tannins and persist through a long, fruit-filled finish. Enticing now, this lovely red will continue developing for 5-8 years and will age well up to 12. |
| 2002 | Cakebread Cellars | Cabernet | 10A2 | 70 | 1 | 89ws |
| 2002 Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley boasts an enticing aroma of ripe black cherry, berry and currant fruit complemented by scents of vanilla, sweet herbs, cocoa, and coffee bean. On the palate, the wine's lush, deep, mouth-filling berry and cassis flavors carry a hint of tea-leaf spiciness and are seamlessly balanced by firm, supple tannins, leading to a lusciously long, rich, oak-enhanced finish. Delicious to drink now, this classic Napa Valley Cabernet will continue to develop for another 5-7 years in bottle. This Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has a clear, dark garnet color. Its spicy, cedar-like scents together with a background aroma of cassis are invitingly rich and complex. On the palate, the texture is rich and smooth with flavors reminiscent of cassis with a hint of chocolate. The overall taste impression of this wine is one of rich black fruit in a delicious balance.2002 Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley: "Smooth, ripe and plush, with excellent balance to the cedary currant, anise and nutmeg scents. Firm and concentrated, with ripe, integrated tannins that will benefit from short-term cellaring. Best from 2007 through 2013. 15,000 cases made." 89 Points - Wine Spectator, May 31, 2005 |
| 2003 | Cakebread Cellars | Cabernet | 10A1 | 70 | 1 | 87st |
| 87st Beautifully focused while enticingly lush, Cakebread Cabernet is dense, ripe and chewy, with complex, concentrated flavors of currant, plum and black cherry that keep pumping for a long, rich aftertaste. It's tempting now, but sure to improve over the next few years. 87cg 11% Merlot. If starting out in a curious direction with elements of dried leaves and bacon more evident than a bare wisp of ill-defined fruit in the nose, this bottling finds its varietal footing once in the mouth and shows solid cherry and cassis flavors set against a nice bit of oak. Never flashy, but fairly constant and balanced from front to back, the wine wins recommendation despite its quirky aromatic beginnings and has a fair chance of moving ahead in the rankings if allowed some four or five years of further development. Cakebread's 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts enticing aromas of ripe black fruits and dark chocolate, with lush, concentrated, blackberry, black cherry and black fig flavors. A supple structure of fine tannins is well-integrated with the wine's ripe fruit and fresh acidity, leading to a finish full of rich dark chocolate and blackberry flavors. Delicious to drink now, this classic Napa Valley Cabernet should develop beautifully in bottle for another 5-7 years. |
| 2001 | Carter Beckstoffer Vineyards | Cabernet | 4C7-8 | 150 | 2 | 93we |
| 93we Made from grapes grown in the To Kalon Vineyard, this Cab showcases both its terroir and the amazing vintage. It’s dry, ripe in currants and cherries, lush in tannins yet expressive and forward. Very drinkable now, with good grip, a dry finish and plenty of elegance. A bold, rich and concentrated young wine, with a dense core of currant, blackberry and wild berry fruit. Sharply focused, supported by firm, ripe tannins. Notably svelte, finishing with a touch of mocha-laced oak. Best from 2007 through 2012. 221 cases made. (JL) |
| 2000 | Caymus | Cabernet | 7B5 | 76 | 1 | 92ws |
| 92ws Pure, clear flavors of black currant and blackberry seem to fan out across the palate, underlined by subtler notes of anise, toasted spice and roasted coffee beans. The softer, rounded blueberry flavors of Merlot seem more intense at mid-palate. However, the overall flavor spectrum is essentially seamless. The texture is substantial and full, and the finish is long and sweet. Packs in lots of ripe, rich, complex Cabernet flavors, gushing with ripe currant, plum and wild berry, turning spicy and revealing pretty oak and herb shadings as well. Long, smooth aftertaste. Drink now through 2010. 26,000 cases made. (JL) |
| 2002 | Caymus | Cabernet | 7B2-4 | 75 | 3 | 93ws |
| WS 93 points, Lots of rich, creamy oak and a tasty core of ripe currant, plum and black cherry fruit combine to form notably complex and concentrated young wine. Delicious from start to finish, with a long, fruity aftertaste and fine-grained tannins. 92cg There are arguments to be made that this inviting young wine is a little too forward and too reliant on oak, but for all of its debt to sweet, creamy spice, it is solidly fruity at its heart and has the extract good Cabernet Sauvignon needs. It is quite ripe, fairly full in the mouth and surprisingly supple for such a young wine, yet it is anything but frontal or one to be gulped down in haste. We expect it to shine after only few years of age, but it has the kind of depth and genuine fruit substance to carry it for close to a decade. |
| 2003 | Caymus | Cabernet | 7A11-7B1 | 70 | 2 | 94we |
| 94we This extraordinary wine possesses an enormous wealth of black cherry, blueberry, cassis and espresso flavors, wrapped in fine, well-toasted oak. Has that rare quality of elegance, in which all the parts work together in harmony. Thoroughly dry, it’s marked by a firm, astringent tannic structure now, but is a certain cel lar candidate. Should begin to blossom by 2008 and hold through 2015. — S.H. (6/1/2006) 93ws "Smooth, rich and seductive, with impeccable balance, great depth and lots of finesse and flavor. The layers of plum, black cherry, mocha, spice and wild berry flavors unfold gracefully, giving it a long, supple aftertaste. Drink now through 2012.—" (WS) |
| 2005 | Caymus | Cabernet | 7A9-10 | 70 | 2 | 93rp |
| "A barrel sample of the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection offers terrific fruit intensity and purity, a more laid-back style, a meaty, chewy texture, and impressive opulence as well as length. It should evolve for 10-15 years. 92 PTS WILFRED WONG. An outstanding effort, the well-built '05 Caymus Cabernet exhibits superb black fruit flavors that ride long and lustily in a devilishly delicious, long and lasting finish. A burst of black fruit aromas, the essence of perfect summer berries. Sweet, ripe blackberry flavors with an undertone of mocha and toasted oak. Balancing acidity and a fine, chalky texture carry the wine through to an exceptionally long finish, with no falling off of the rich fruit flavors. From first sip to last, nothing is missing as the wine crosses the palate. Vinfolio (1) Drink: 2007 - 2020 |
| 2000 | Caymus Special Selection | Cabernet | 4B2-3 | 130 | 2 | 93we |
| 93we 93we A bright-edged wine, redolent of Bing cherry, raspberry, blackberry, anise, spice, cedar and herb flavors. Tannins are powdery, firm and ripe. They frame the wine in a toasty embrace, ending with a plush finish. Consistently a benchmark from the heartland of California Cabernet. — J.M. (12/15/2003) 92 points from the Wine Spectator... 'This represents a slight stylistic change for Caymus, with the harvesting of slightly riper grapes and less time in barrel. The result is a richly flavored and beautifully crafted wine, with well-defined currant, cassis, blackberry and plum flavors that are mouth-coating, finishing with intricate coffee, mocha and pencil lead flavors. Big ripe tannins are firm but polished. Best from 2004 through 2012. (Feb-2003) |
| 2003 | Caymus Special Selection | Cabernet | 4B1 | 130 | 1 | 94rp |
| Robert Parker 94 Points The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection offers up scents of licorice, black currants, spice box, and a hint of flowers. This deep, full-bodied, chunky 2003 should last for 13-15 years. Intense, complex and concentrated, with a vibrant stack of flavors built around currant, blackberry and wild berry, with pretty oak nuances on the finish, along with ripe, firm tannins. Excellent sample. Score: 94. —James Laube, September 30, 2004. |
| 2004 | Caymus Special Selection | Cabernet | 4B4 | 145 | 1 | 96rp |
| 96rp The Wine Advocate The brilliant, super-rich 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection (this cuvee is now aged only 15-16 months in barrels compared to older vintages that spent almost twice as long in wood) boasts an inky/purple hue, and sweet notes of lead pencil shavings, creme de cassis, licorice, and charcoal. This dense, full-bodied, opulent, seamless, heady Cabernet is ideal for drinking over the next 15+ years. 94ws The Wine Spectator Has aromas of lead pencil, currant and blackberry. Tightly wound, dense and concentrated, with a dash of earthiness. Finishes with a supple texture and a complex range of flavor. Score range: 92-94. Score: 94. —James Laube, July 31, 2005. |
| 2003 | Chalk Hill Estate Bottled | Cabernet | 11A1 | 55 | 1 | 94we |
| 94we Steve Leveque, the winemaker at Chalk Hill, is doing everything right. Everything he touches is gold, including Cabernet. The ’03 is extraordinarily balanced and beautiful, a dry, ripe wine of power and full-bodied substance, but enormous subtlety. The cassis fruit meshes seamlessly with toasty new oak to produce compellingly complex flavors. Drink now through 2010. — S.H. Blend: 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, 4% Malbec, 4% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot Vineyard: Estate Appellation: Chalk Hill Ageing: Twenty months, 63% new French oak |
| 1999 | Chateau Lynch Bages | Red Wine | 2C7 | 66 | 1 | 91rp |
| 91rp This dense ruby/purple-colored 1999 is a modern day clone of this estate's wonderful 1962. The 1999 reveals forward, open-knit notes of creme de cassis and earth. It is fleshy, medium to full-bodied, and succulent, with supple tannin, excellent balance, as well as a long, pure, ripe finish. This seductive effort will drink well for 12-15 years, possibly longer. |
| 2001 | Chateau Margaux | Red Wine | 8D8-9 | 40 | 2 | 89ws |
| 89ws Fresh and floral, with hints of berries and vanilla. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a fresh, fruity finish. Refined. Second wine of Margaux. Best after 2007. 20,000 cases made. |
| 1999 | Chateau Pichon-Longueville | Red Wine | 11C6 | 66 | 1 | 90rp |
| 90rp THIS LOW ACID, MEDIUM-BODIED, CHARMING, LUSH 1999 POSSESSES GOOD STUFFING, RIPE TANNIN, AND A MODERATELY LONG FINISH. ENJOY IT NOW AS WELL AS OVER THE NEXT 10-12 YEARS. (RP) st 'Evolving aromas of currant, tobacco, cigar box, mocha and earth. Sweet, lush and rich; in a distinctly easygoing style, thanks to the very ripe merlot, which comprises 37% of the blend.' 1999 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (Pauillac):A delicate and refined red. Fresh aromas of raspberries and minerals follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a delicate, refreshing finish. Best after 2003. " 88 Points - Wine Spectator, January 31, 2002 |
| 1997 | Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages | Cabernet | 5A10-11 | 120 | 2 | 96ws |
| Spectator: - "Ultrarich and chocolaty, with layers of cedar, plum, currant and black cherry, revealing uncommon depth and tiers of flavor as it picks up coffee, toffee and anise. Finishes with firm tannins. Best from 2002 through 2012. Tasted twice, with consistent notes." Parker: -"The 1997 Cinq Cepages is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Petit-Verdot, it boasts a super-complex bouquet of licorice, dried herbs, black currants, spice box, and cherry liqueur. In the mouth, notes of chocolate, new oak, and red and black fruits caress the palate in a medium to full-bodied, succulent style. Aged in 50% new and 50% one-year old French barrels, it is bottled with no fining or filtration. Fleshy and complex, this is California's answer to a big, rich St.-Emilion. Drinkable now, it promises to last for 12-15 years." |
| 1999 | Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages | Cabernet | 5A7-9 | 100 | 3 | 95ws |
| Spectator Review: "Gorgeous Cabernet, offering a mix of ripe, rich, fleshy currant and blackberry fruit, with hints of herb, olive and sage. Finishes with a firm, structured backbone and ripe tannins giving it depth and richness. Drink now through 2014." Parker Review: "...boasts an opaque ruby/purple color in addition to a sweet bouquet of licorice, dried herbs, tobacco, smoke, black cherries, and cassis. It is medium to full-bodied, with a lovely texture, admirable complexity, and a long finish..." |
| 2000 | Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages | Cabernet | 5A4-6 | 76 | 3 | 90ws |
| 90 points Wine Spectator: "Smooth and harmonious, with ripe, rich, supple plum and blackberry fruit, shaded by cedar, anise, black cherry and spice attributes. Firms up and flexes its tannic strength on the finish. Very well-made. Drink now through 2010." |
| 2001 | Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages | Cabernet | 5A2-3 | 75 | 2 | 94rm |
| 94rm Jan 21, 2006 - Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages 2001 - RM 94 - Complex, polished, elegant, smooth, full bodied, currant flavor with subtle vanilla, plum and essence of mocha on the finish. A lovely Cab, elegant and harmonious. Strikes an even balance between cherry and blackberry flavors, smoky oak, sweet herbs, cocoa and spice. The tannins are beautifully ripe and soft. Of all these qualities, balance is foremost." 93 Points - Wine Enthusiast, March 1, 2005 Beautifully crafted, dark, rich and layered, with blackberry, cherry, plum and wild berry fruit that zooms across the palate, holding a tight focus and finishing with a long, complex aftertaste. The tannins firm up nicely on the finish. Drink now through 2011. Score: 92. A lovely Cab, elegant and harmonious. Strikes an even balance between cherry and blackberry flavors, smoky oak, sweet herbs, cocoa and spice. The tannins are beautifully ripe and soft. Of all these qualities, balance is foremost.(Wine Enthusiast) The 2001 Cinq Cepages is an outstanding effort, although not up to the quality of the terrific examples made in the mid-nineties. A dark ruby/purple color is followed by an elegant nose of cranberries, cherries, red and black currants, smoke, and herbs. This elegant, medium to full-bodied 2001 is ideal for drinking over the next 12-13 years." 90 Points - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, Issue 157 |
| 2003 | Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages | Cabernet | 5A1 | 55 | 1 | 94we |
| A classic Cinq Cepages, the 2003 vintage offers the signature chocolate - covered cherry and boysenberry aromas that have come to define this flagship Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon. Lush, elegant and gracefully balanced, the wine delivers sweet plum and dark berry flavors and an exotic floral note that wraps around big, juicy tannins. This highly concentrated wine has beautiful oak integration and a lushness throughout that leads to a lingering finish. Sonoma, CA- "Smooth and complex, with 78% Cab contributing the firm tannic backbone that gives this such excellent structure...The flavors are so interesting: black cherries, blackberry jam, plum sauce, coffee, root beer and new oak. There's an acidic vibrancy as well." Wine Enthusiast 94 The Cinq Cepages is impressive. It boasts a deep ruby/purple hue as well as aromas of cedar, black currants, sweet cherries, licorice, and smoky oak. Medium to full-bodied, authoritatively flavored, elegant and impressively long with a velvety texture, it is already delicious and evolved but should drink well for at least another 12-14 years. There are some terrific values in the Chateau St. Jean portfolio. People complain, with justification, about the high prices of the finest California wines, but this winery releases some offerings that are actually under priced for what’s in the bottle. The values in this portfolio seem obvious, and the winery is to be applauded for that |
| 2000 | Chimney Rock Stag's Leap Reserve | Cabernet | UT | 100 | 3 | 90cg |
| 90cg Counting poise and polish as first among its many assets, this rich, sweetly oaked and beautifully measured young Cabernet sports lots of very friendly fruit from start to finish. Keen sense of balance that is equaled by few. Fairly forward, yet quite long on the palate and never overly reliant on ripeness, it calls for mid-term aging and should peak in a half-dozen years. |
| 2001 | Chimney Rock Stags Leap Ditrict | Cabernet | UT | 50 | 1 | 93we |
| 93 we Medium ruby color; very attractive, forward, complex, plummy, cedary, sweet red currant and red berry fruit aroma with a hint of coffee and overtones of creamy oak; medium-full body; forward, supple, elegantly styled, toasty, tarrish, plummy red currant and ripe red berry fruit flavors with a rounded mouth feel; well balanced; medium-full tannin; lingering aftertaste. Approachable and very enjoyable to taste now though has the balance and structure to develop for another five years. Very highly recommended. - California Grapevine 91 points |
| 2003 | Cliff Lede Poetry Stags Leap District | Cabernet | 2B10-11 | 125 | 2 | 95v |
| Just beautiful. from the Poetry vineyard in Stag’s Leap, a vineyard of shallow soils and old, low-yielding Cabernet vines. This is a big, powerful wine, but still leaves the impression of grace. Aromas of spices, plum, mocha, anise, lavender and blueberry lead to pure, rich flavors of black cherry, rose petal, and spices. The finish just keeps going, with extremely fine tannins suggesting this has a number of years ahead of it. A magnificent wine. 9.5vinography "Poetry" Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District. Score: 9.5/10. Wow. |
| 1999 | Clos Du Val Reserve | Cabernet | 7A1-5 | 95 | 5 | 94we |
| 94we"Elegant and restrained, this complex, well-crafted wine offers hints of green olive, cedar, currant and black cherry, supported by firm tannins. The long, elegant aftertaste is enlivened by acidity. Drink now through 2010." (11/03) |
| 2002 | Concha y Toro Don Melchor | Cabernet | 8C10 | 65 | 1 | 93w&s |
| 93 PTS WINE & SPIRITS. 92ws 91we The '02 Concha y Toro Don Melchor Cabernet is fresh and full of blackberry and raspberry aromas; spice and mineral tones get deeper as the wine gains texture and brightness. |
| 2000 | Concha y Toro Don Melchor | Cabernet | 8C11 | 100 | 1 | 94ws |
| 94ws 90waThe barrel sample of the 2000 Don Melchor I tasted was medium to dark ruby/purple-colored. It reveals candied red fruit aromas and a majestically concentrated character. This jammy, cherry and raspberry-flavored wine has outstanding potential. It is spicy, broad-shouldered, and powerful. Projected maturity: 2008-2018. Congratulations to Concha y Toro and winemaker Enrique Tirado for this fascinating and enlightening lineup of delicious wines. Terrific personality with prune cocoa loam mineral dark currant blackberry tar and sanguine flavors that don't quit. Well-structured with fine balance and harmony already and a very long finish. Best from 2005 through 2010. 15200 cases made." |
| 2003 | Corison | Cabernet | 2D4 | 65 | 1 | 91st |
| Bing cherry and plum chutney fruit and rendered rich and complex with undertones of cocoa, nutmeg, white pepper and "Rutherford dust". Trademark floral highnotes are already beginning to develop in the bottle. Lush with gentle, mouth-coating tannins, it gracefully walks the line between power and elegance, perfectly balanced for a long, distinguished life This limited-production Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, by Corizon is hand-crafted without compromise from some of the finest vineyards in the Napa Valley. Rich, complex flavors and aromas. The red fruit notes include plum, blackberry and black cherry with hints of chocolate and a dash of spice for interest. A beautiful floral perfume of violets and an unmistakable mineral quality, complete the package. All of the components converge in just the right place; everything is in balance. Good full ruby. Sweet aromas of cassis, blackberry, licorice and violet. Juicy and sweet, with excellent clarity of flavor. Bears a strong resemblance to the 2002. A firmly built wine, with excellent acidity and inner-mouth energy. Finishes with noteworthy persistence and subtlety of flavor. ST 90-92 |
| 2004 | Corley Proprietary | Red Wine | WB | 30 | 8 | |
| Continuing along my musical theme from above, this wine’s opening stanza is a medley of blueberry, blackberry, floral and sweet oak tones. The chorus is lovely, the tannins laying down a solid rhythmic bass line, while the berry aromatics and dark fruit flavors entertain with an “echo” jam evoking some of the old-school boogie-woogie piano jams of old. The finish is sweet, lingering and smoky – like the last song of the evening in a downtown jazz club. – Chris Corley, Winemaker Cabernet Franc (61%) Merlot (21%) Cabernet Sauvignon (12%) Syrah (6%) |
| 2003 | Corley Reserve | Cabernet | WB | 30 | 8 | |
| Aromatics of berries, blackberry, coffee and chocolate with oak nicely woven into the thread. The flavors are very similar in profile to the aromatics, this wine shows nice consistency and balance throughout the entire experience, from the aromatics to the finish. The mouth feel is a full, rich attack that coats the mouth with richness. The tannins are full but approachable and should evolve nicely as this wine develops with time. The full finish lingers on the back of the palate with firm but appropriate tannin. “In 2003 we separated several select lots from State Lane and Tietjen Vineyards to use for the Corley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. These free run lots were selected for their textural, aromatic and flavor balances. As is typical, our Corley Reserve blends carry a higher percentage of new oak than the Jefferson Cuvee blends. In 2003 I used roughly 40% new oak, heavily toasted from the Troncais forest in France. We utilized barrels from several different coopers. 90% Cabernet Sauvignon 6 % Merlot 3 % Cabernet Franc |
| 2004 | Corte Riva | Cabernet | 11D1 | 65 | 1 | 91ws |
| 91ws 89rp "The deep ruby/purple-colored 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits abundant scents of espresso roast, black cherries, cassis, and chocolate. More structured and backward than the Merlot, with a more linear, masculine mouthfeel, it will benefit from 1-2 years of bottle age, and should keep for 10-15 years." A dark ruby color, this Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 18 months in French Oak barrels, 75% new. This well balanced wine has great structure. It is full bodied, yet elegant and refined. It has an intense nose of blackberry and black cherry, dark chocolate and sweet integrated oak. The flavors continue through the mid palate with the addition of spice and fine soft tannin. |
| 2002 | Cosentino Hoopes Ranch | Cabernet | 1C2-1D10 | 75 | 20 | 94we |
| Wine Enthusiast, Cellar Selection. Rated: 94 points. "What a great job Mitch Cosentino does with Bordeaux varities.... Rich in Cassis, Cherry and Toast. This balanced wine has smooth polished tannins and a long finish. Remarkably good now and will devolop for many years." Complex notes of spice, minerals, earth and black fruits commingle in an almost exotic melange of aromas and flavors.This is a wine of great purity. Distinctive Graves - like lead pencil in the nose with notes of oak and blue berries. Richly concentrated with excellent balance on the palate. Cabernet Sauvignon that exhibits the special uniqueness of the Oakville appellation. I recently tasted this wine again at the Taste of Oakville in Napa Valley. It was my favorite wine over the likes of Screaming Eagle. Bright and juicy with gobs of fruit. |
| 2005 | Covenant | Cabernet | 11C5 | 85 | 1 | 91rp |
| 90-92wa The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (550 cases) possesses beautiful purity along with abundant amounts of black currant fruit intermixed with licorice, tobacco leaf, and spice box notes. It is a restrained, elegant version of the extroverted 2004. The 2005 should drink well for 12-15 years. WA # , #168 (Dec 2006) Drink 2006 - 2021 Robert Parker |
| 2003 | Craneford | Shiraz | 11C4 | 39 | 1 | 92rp |
| 90-93 points Robert Parker: "A barrel sample of the 2003 Shiraz (14% alcohol) exhibits notes of black fruits, flowers, and damp earth along with a dense, full-bodied, opulent style. This offering will not be particularly long-lived, but it possesses a pure flavor, good texture, and offers a considerable value." (10/04) |
| 2001 | D`Arenberg Coppermine Road | Cabernet | 11B6 | 60 | 1 | 93rp |
| 2001 d'Arenberg The Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon: "One of the finest Cabernet Sauvignons produced in South Australia is d’Arenberg’s Coppermine Road. The colossal 2001 The Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits an opaque purple color in addition to a gorgeous perfume of lead pencil shavings intermixed with blackberry and cassis fruit, vanilla, Asian spices, and white flowers. Still primary and young, with great intensity as well as tremendous upside potential, it requires 5-6 more years of aging, after which it will last for two decades." 93 Points - Robert M. Parker, Jr.'s, The Wine Advocate, Issue 148 |
| 2000 | Dalle Valle | Cabernet | 4B11 | 130 | 1 | 93ws |
| 93ws 'A wonderful display of fruit purity, with floral, plum, grapey currant and black cherry fruit that's well-focused and supported by firm tannins. Finishes with a push of blackberry and lead pencil. ' 90rp "An outstanding effort, [with] copious quantities of cas-sis fruit, medium to full body, ripe, pure flavors, sweet tannin, and a long, heady finish. Anticipated maturity: now - 2015." 90-92st Bright ruby. Aromas of cassis, blackberry, bitter chocolate, licorice and shoe polish. Tightly wound and serious, with notes of minerals and shoe polish and a strong spine of acidity. Dense and bright but not yet expansive in the middle palate. Finishes firm and long. |
| 2000 | Darioush | Cabernet | 7C1 | 67 | 1 | 94we |
| 94we This luscious Signature 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts spectacular soaring aromatics of mocha-espresso, blackberries, licorice and cassis with subtle notes of sweet vanillin. Layer after layer of dense, richly concentrated juicy black fruit unfold powe |
| 2001 | Darioush | Cabernet | 7B10-11 | 67 | 2 | 94ws |
| WS 94 Pts. - Wonderfully rich intense and concentrated Cabernet, with neat layers of tightly focused currant, black cherry, anise, sage and cedary oak. Given all its flavor and richness, there's a sense of elegance and finesse. Well-integrated tannins provide an excellent balance to the rich flavors. Best from 2003 to 2012. 2,443 cases made. This luscious Signature 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts spectacular soaring aromatics of mocha, espresso, blackberries, licorice and cassis with subtle notes of sweet vanillin. Layer after layer of dense, richly concentrated juicy black fruit unfold powerfully yet gently on the palate. Well-balanced acidity and velvety tannin add graceful support to the wine's supple richness and concentration. A wine of extraordinary depth with a long, enduring finish. Best until 2012. Proprietor Darioush Khaledi has fine wine in his blood. Khaledi grew up in Iran's Shiraz region, a wine-growing zone, that is up until the Islamic revolution. His father made wine as a hobby, and as young boy, Khaledi used to sneak sips from the barrel. As an adult, he became a devoted collector of fine wines. Nestled in the eastern slopes of the Napa Valley near the Oak Knoll and Stag's Leap appellations, Khaledi's vision is to craft elegant, complex, world-class wines in the finest Old-World style yet reflective of the expressive fruit generally associated with big Napa Cabs. Ripe, but with balancing structure and considerable power and body, this highly sought after red will drink well now and for at least a decade. |
| 2004 | Darioush | Cabernet | 7B8-9 | 76 | 2 | 95cg |
| CG 95pts. - The Napa Valley is renowned for producing some of the world’s most inspiring—and collectible—Cabernet Sauvignons. The 2004 Darioush Signature Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic Napa Valley vintage; ripe, lush and profoundly concentrated, yet epitomizing the stylistic profile and poise we value so highly. 2004 Darioush Signature Cabernet Sauvignon's alluring floral and licorice aromatics combine with the sweet scent of crushed blackberries to introduce this seriously sexy wine. Finely-knit tannins support a rich, full-bodied mid-palate of crème de cassis, European dark chocolate, espresso, earth and exotic allspice. Though best decanted in its youth, this sophisticated beauty will age gracefully for the next decade. Darioush Khaledi has proven to be the master of the rich, fleshy, full-bodied style, and once again, his winery delivers a bottling with a virtually unrivalled combination of intensity, drama and hedonistic pleasure. In its youth, the wine is at once both open and brooding, and its invitingly sensual aromas and flavors, while seeming to ask for early enjoyment, are far from fully developed. One can easily partner this lush wine with juicy filet mignons or a standing rib roast, but putting it in the cellar for half a decade or more seems the better idea. The true signature of a wine, its character and sense of place, is born in the vineyard. Grown in the cooler-climates of southern Napa Valley and upon the rocky slopes of Mt. Veeder, our Cabernet Sauvignon’s ‘Signature’ will always be its graceful combination of rich, concentrated fruit, earth and spice complexity with the well-integrated, age-worthy structure found in the worlds most collectible wines. |
| 2004 | DeLille Cellars D2 | Red Wine | 3A7 | 42 | 1 | 91we |
| WE91" An extraordinary, effusive nose, smooth and voluptuous, with spectacular focus and concentration, opens this wine. There is an herbal underpinning, and just a bit of tannic roughness, but it’s nothing that won’t soften up with time. This, along with Quilceda’s second-tier red, is the best red wine value in the state. Still showing youthful tart, tight acid; it’s chewy but focused. Good flavors of very tart cherry, plum and even red apple, leading into hints of menthol, cigar box, pepper and slate. — P.G. (3/1/2007) |
| 2002 | Delectus Oakville | Cabernet | 2D2 | 67 | 1 | |
| Aromas of cherry liqueur, creme-de-cassis, well-integrated oak, some vanilla bean, cocoa. Well-structured mouth feel, a trace of dust, loaded with dark fruit, rich chocolate, and a very long finish. The nose features crème de cassis, chocolate-covered cherries, clove, and lemon peel. The mouth is a trip through your spice rack, but most impressive is the powerful finish |
| 2003 | Delille Cellars Chaleur Estate | Red Wine | 8D7 | 70 | 1 | 95wa |
| Wine Advocate 95 points - Amazing aromas of blueberries, black cherries, spices, sage, thyme, and violets emanate from the glass of the 2003 Chaleur Estate (red). Though this wine is densely packed with candied blackberries as well as cassis, it loses none of its elegance and charm. Extremely well-focused and detailed, it also reveals great length in its seamless finish. Drink it over the next 15 years |
| 2001 | Dominari | Cabernet | 8B6 | 75 | 1 | 88we |
| we88 Very young, with a cut of acidity that has yet to be integrated into the oaky, rather flamboyant flavors of cassis and blackberries. It’s all there, including lush tannins, but needs a few years to come together. Best after 2005. A new label from Atlas Peak. — S.H. (10/1/2004) AWCL 10yr from 03 A traditional Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with its own style and elegance. This mountain grown wine definitely lives up to its name. It will arouse your senses to a new appreciation of fine wine. |
| 2000 | Dominus Napa Valley Proprietary | Red Wine | 1A5 | 100 | 1 | 92ww |
| 92ww Dominus is the red wine produced from the historical Napanook vineyard, 124 acres in size, in Yountville, mid-Napa Valley, California. Christian Moueix of St. Emilion and Pomerol (France) began producing Dominus with the 1983 vintage. The wine is essentially made from Cabernet Sauvignon with small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Bright, full medium ruby. Highly complex nose combines plum syrup, minerals, tobacco and shoe polish. Lush, full and fleshy, but with terrific minerally verve underneath. Strong flavor of black plum. Perhaps sweeter and more pliant today than the '99. "From a vintage with a more normal skin-to-juice ratio," notes Moueix. A distinctly adult-styled Bordeaux blend, with excellent length and grip. A must-have for the cellar! Dominus is the proprietary red wine produced in the heart of Napa Valley by Christian Moueix and his winemaking team. Since 1983, their goal has been to express the unique terroir found at the historic Napanook Vineyard. The 2000 is a blend of 83% cabernet sauvignon, 9% cabernet franc, 5% merlot and 3% petit verdot.The round, seductive 2000 will drink well for 12-15 years. |
| 2001 | Dominus Napa Valley Proprietary | Red Wine | 1A4 | 119 | 1 | 95rp |
| 95rp...should last for two decades 95ws...thru 2014 94 Points" Wine Enthusiast;s Top 100 Wines of 2004 OUR EDITOR'S PICK THE YEAR'S MUST-HAVE WINES As good as the 2001 Napanook is, this wine is more intense. The fruit is lusher, the oak newer, the control more complete, but the kicker is the tannins. They're powerful and dusty, and conceal the flamboyance, for now. Needs time; hold until 2010 and beyond. 93( + )st Good ruby-red. Superripe aromas of plum, cherry, licorice, mocha, smoke and minerals. At once sweet and gripping, with very intense, nuanced flavors of cherry, plum, currant, tobacco, minerals and currant leaf. Despite the very high pH of 4.01, this shows no shortage of energy in the mouth. A muscular, firmly tannic, serious wine for aging. (A second sample that had been decanted for four hours prior to my visit was sweeter and more seamless, but still showed solid tannic spine.) |
| 2002 | Dominus Napa Valley Proprietary | Red Wine | 1A3 | 120 | 1 | 96rp |
| 96 points Robert Parker: "The 2002 Dominus gets my nod as the greatest example of this cuvee since the 1991 and 1994. There are 4,500 cases of this 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot, and 3% Merlot blend fashioned from minuscule yields ranging from 1.8 to 2.8 tons of fruit per acre. Christian Moueix told me that the phenolic material was higher analytically in 2002, as were the acids, which surprised everyone. The deep, saturated purple-colored 2002 boasts an extraordinary perfume of roasted coffee intermixed with black currants, cherries, cocoa, cedar, cigar smoke, and new saddle leather. A classic, full-bodied palate possesses great structure, tremendous depth, loads of tannin, and a multilayered, concentrated yet elegant finish. It is difficult to predict when this beauty will plateau in terms of maturity. My best guess is it needs 3-5 years of bottle age, and should last for 25 years." 92+ points Stephen Tanzer: "(85% cabernet sauvignon, 8% cabernet sauvignon, 4% petit verdot and 3% merlot) Red-ruby. Cool, shy aromas of currant, blackberry and licorice, with a leafy, medicinal aspect. Dense, fat and structured but also quite penetrating and powerful, with black fruit, licorice and herbal flavors and a strong impression of extract. This offers noteworthy energy in the mouth, and finishes quite claret-like, with fine-grained tannins and sneaky length..." (Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/Jun 05) |
| 2003 | Dominus Napa Valley Proprietary | Red Wine | 1A1-2 | 125 | 2 | 95rp |
| Robert Parker 95 Points Wine Advocate -- The 2003 Dominus has turned out even better than I thought from barrel. There are 4,800 cases of this 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot blend. A big, sweet nose of roasted coffee, Provencal herbs, black currants, cherry jam, plums, allspice, and forest floor is followed by a spicy, rich, full-bodied, fragrant, intense wine. The tannins are sweet, but noticeable in this beautifully complex, strikingly aromatic 2003. It has much more similarity to a great Bordeaux than anything from Napa Valley. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025. |
| 2001 | Duckhorn Vineyards | Cabernet | 3C3-4 | 60 | 2 | 94ws |
| 94ws 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. "Layered with fruit that explodes upon first taste with flavors of red currant, cassis, and crème brulée. This vintage is well-balanced with smooth, mouth-filling tannins that will allow it to develop for 7-10 years in the bottle. The aroma has notes of cherry, blackberry, and blueberry with caramel and exotic spice." Winemaker's Comments.Ultrarich, with plush, thick, concentrated currant, black cherry and wild berry fruit. Sharply focused, long and intense, with smooth tannins. Toasty oak makes a showing on the finish. Wine Spectator." |
| 2001 | Duckhorn Vineyards Estate | Cabernet | 3C6 | 90 | 1 | 94ws |
| 94 points Wine Spectator: "A bold, rich, massive expression of exuberant Cabernet, with layers of concentrated currant, blackberry, spice and wild berry flavors that offer a mix of power and finesse, easing up a bit on the finish, where the tannins are ripe and firm. Best from 2006 through 2012." (11/04) |
| 2002 | Duckhorn Vineyards Estate | Cabernet | 3C5 | 90 | 1 | 94ws |
| Wine Spectator: 'Highly Recommended' 94 Points This Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon from our twenty-fifth harvest is a full-bodied wine that is nicely layered with a velvet structure, round tannins, dense texture, and a lingering finish. The aroma is concentrated with ripe raspberry, black cherry and toasted oak followed by vanilla, mocha and hints of spice. The flavors are rich with blackberry, currant, dark chocolate and a savory component of roasted coffee and smoked meat.Our Estate Grown wines are blended using the best lots of our Estate ranches. In any given harvest we have 30 or more separate lots of Estate wine. With these vineyards, we harvest the grapes at natural maturity, going through vineyard sites several times, picking only the ripe fruit with each pass. The final blend for our Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon is approachable in its youth, with a soft texture and notable finesse, but also has the structure to carry forward for a decade or longer. |
| 2002 | Dunn Vineyards Howell Mountain | Cabernet | 2A5 | 90 | 1 | 93st |
| 92-94st Stephen Tanzer: Good full ruby-red. Complex nose combines cassis, black cherry, licorice and game. Silky and thick; even sweeter than the Napa sample. This has a wonderfully round mid-palate and impressive, fat fruit. Finishes firmly tannic and very long. Despite the recent sulfuring, this comes across as more fleshy and pliant than the 2001. 91-93rp Robert Parker: The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain exhibits an inky/blue/purple color along with a sweet perfume of pure blackberries, meat, new saddle leather, and flowers. From an unusually ripe harvest, this sweet, rich, fleshy offering displays more accessibility than many Howell Mountain vintages. Randy Dunn said it was important to drop crop, and he eliminated 40% of the fruit from the vines in both 2002 and 2001. The long, concentrated 2002 may not be the biggest Howell Mountain cuvee, but it will provide lovely drinking between 2009-2024. 93ws "Remarkably elegant and refined, showing distinct floral, mineral, blackberry and black plum fruit. The finish is rich, with fine-grained tannins. Score range: 92-94 (JL)" |
| 2002 | Emilio's Terrace Reserve | Cabernet | 11C2 | 50 | 1 | 91we |
| 91we The Wine Enthusiast The vineyard is in the foothills above Mondavi, and the wine is marked by the authoritative tannic structure that usually marks Cabs from this neighborhood. Rich in pure cassis, there's a dusty, locked-down quality and a sandpapery astringency that suggests aging. This is a very fine wine and should drink well in a few years and then hold through 2014 or so. Score: 91. —Steve Heimoff, August 01, 2006. |
| 2000 | Endeavor | Cabernet | 6C4 | 45 | 1 | |
| Endeavour is the winery’s top Cabernet. This vintage is a blend of 90% Endeavour embodies the best that Dry Creek Vineyard has to offer in Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of black cherries, currants and dried raspberries mingle with nuances of clove, bramble and peat. Rich and opulent on the palate, a mixture of dark chocolate and juicy berries shine with plenty of balanced and full-bodied tannins. The structure of this wine, complemented by its well-integrated oak, promises excellent potential for extended bottle aging. Includes 10% cabernet franc. |
| 2003 | Equilateral The Gabrielle Collection | Cabernet | 3B1 | 46 | 1 | 90ct |
| "This Cabernet Sauvignon is a composition from premier vineyards of the Napa Valley. Each release is a unique composition, so wine lovers eagerly await the next release. Layers of blackberry and chocolate with a velvety finish entice your palette. Serve to sip and to compliment meats, poultry, pork, vegetarian dishes and chocolate." Ct 90pts cellar tracker average score 90pts |
| 2004 | Etude | Cabernet | 3D3 | 90 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp The classic, deep ruby/purple-tinged 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa offers aromas of tobacco leaf, cedar, black currants, tar, licorice, and espresso. Full-bodied, powerful, and opulent, it can be drunk now or cellared for 15 or more years." RP94 93 Wine Enthusiast: A lush Cabernet that feels soft and delicious right now, but has layers of complexity that make it a cellar candidate.. Dry and oaky, the wine is enormously rich in blackberry, cassis, coca and cedar flavors, with considerable tannins. The wine was assembled from the length of Napa, Calistoga down to Oakville, it is wonderfully balanced. Drink now through 2010, at least. 92ws Tightly wound, with a mix of dried currant, herb, sage and cedary oak. Well-proportioned, focused, intense and concentrated, yet with an elegant lift on the finish. Best from 2009 through 2018. |
| 2000 | Falcor | Red Wine | 3B8-9 | 38 | 2 | |
| Our 2000 “Le Bijou” (the jewel in French) is an elegant Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Opening with aromas of tobacco, cassis, cedar, cola berries and dusty earth, the wine is loaded with opulent blackberry and blueberry fruit, and balanced by sweet tannins and subtle new oak. Luscious and graceful, this wine has a finish that lingers on and on. Crafted in the style of great Bordeaux, the varieties were aged separately in French & American oak for ten months, then racked, blended together and placed back into barrel for seven months additional aging. Approachable on release, this wine will age 8-10 years. |
| 2002 | Fantesca Estate | Cabernet | 2D1 | 60 | 1 | 94w&s |
| Wine & Spirits Review: 94 POINTS The lasting impression is fresh, crisp black cherries, cool as the mountain air at night, the depth of their flavor leaving your mouth feeling refreshed even as the tannins explode like a blast of dynamite in Sprint Mountain rock. no matter the power or intensity of those tannins, the fruit battles and wins out, hovering for more than a minute after each taste. Remarkably powerful, and beautifully fresh for days after its first opened, this should grow more compelling with age. Drink 2012-2016 (850 cases) Dec. ‘05 Wine Advocate Review: 90 POINTS A relatively new operation, this 800-case winery on Spring Mountain dedicated to 100% Cabernet Sauvignon produced an outstanding 2002. Deep ruby purple in color with a sweet nose of black currants, licorice, earth, and some barrique smells, the wine shows impressive concentration as well as purity, moderately high tannin, and a structured style that suggests 1-3 years of bottle-age will be essential after its release. It should age nicely for 10-15 years. This is an impressive start! Drink: 2006-2020 Wine Advocate #157 (Feb 2005) Robert Parker |
| 1999 | Far Niente | Cabernet | 12B4 | 110 | 1 | 93ws |
| WS91-94" INTENSE AND RACY, A TOUCH EARTHY AND MINERALLY. IT'S RICH AND CONCENTRATED, EVEN DENSE AND CHEWY, A PACKED WINE BUILT FOR AGE." DRINK THROUGH 2012!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Medium to Medium-dark ruby; attractive, intense, floral, spicy, herbal, cedary, ripe currant aroma with notes of tobacco, olives, and vanilla; full body; big, moderately rich, forward, concentrated, cedary, herbal, woody, high-extract ripe currant flavors which are somewhat rounded and fleshy on the palate and have good depth; medium-full to full tannin; hint of bitterness on the finish; lingering aftertaste. Above average to superior quality. Approachable now with accessible bruit but deserves another year or two of bottle aging. |
| 2000 | Far Niente | Cabernet | 12A6-B3 | 110 | 4 | 93ws |
| 93ws Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon is grown primarily in our estate Stelling Vineyard, located behind the winery in Oakville. WS 93 This 100-acre vineyard produces wines that exhibit the cassis, blackberry and "dusty" components typical of wines grown in the soils of western Oakville. The 2000 offers a perfume and birght raspberries up front with complementary layers of cassis and cedary oak. This vintage has produced a soft, supple wine with moderate tannins that will only become more velvety with further bottle aging. A classically structured Cabernet which is soft in texture, rich in flavor, complex and long. The 2000 displays the typical cassis and blackberry notes along with spicy oak aromas that have become synonymous with the Far Niente "house style." Time enhances the flavors and nurtures the bottle bouquet, offering elegance, and earning Far Niente the reputation for creating age-worthy wines.This wine has subtle blackberry, cherry and cassis flavors complemented by cedary oak components as well as the typical "dusty" flavors traditionally found among the soils of western Oakville vineyards. Once again Far Niente has produced a round ripe Cabernet with a firm, graceful core. Though soft now, it will reward patience with a longer and more velvety texture.The 1999 Cabernet displays substantial cassis and dark blackberry aromas that are mirrored on the palate with the extra density and depth that come from an excellent vintage and low vineyard production. The lush ripeness marries particularly well with the toasty char of the French oak. This wine has all the layers and structure typical of Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon. Well-built if a bit lean, with spice, mineral, herb, olive and currant flavors shaded by light oak. Well-focused, this aims for elegance and restraint at the expense of riper, fuller or oakier flavors. Drink now through 2010.(WS) |
| 2001 | Far Niente | Cabernet | 12A4-5 | 110 | 2 | 93ws |
| 93ws Excellent structure, depth and richness, deftly balanced, with a firm core of well-defined earthy currant, sage, plum and pencil lead flavors and finishing with a burst of concentrated flavors and ripe, fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2012. |
| 2004 | Far Niente | Cabernet | 12A1-3 | 120 | 3 | 93ws |
| Aromas of very dark fruit, black currant, dark chocolate, dust/earth, vanillan and perfume are layered behind the ripeness. The wine provides a big and full entry, yet the tannins are balanced and have an underlying silkiness. On the palate, ripe cassis and spice mingle with well-integrated oak and evolve into a lingering, fruit-driven finish. 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 4% Merlot aged for 17 months in French oak (61% new, 39% once-used). The wine displays dark chocolate,cassis and blackberry notes along with spicy oak aromas that have become synonymous with the Far Niente "house style." The finish is long and fruit driven. Time enhances the flavors and nurtures the bottle bouquet, offering elegance, and earning Far Niente the reputation for creating age-worthy wines. 2004 Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Excellent structure, depth and richness, deftly balanced, with a firm core of well-defined earthy currant, sage, plum and pencil lead flavors and finishing with a burst of concentrated flavors and ripe, fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2012. 8,100 cases made." |
| 2001 | Fisher "Coach Insignia" Napa | Cabernet | 8D10-11 | 66 | 2 | 93rp |
| 93 points Robert Parker: "The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Coach Insignia (4,500 cases of a beautiful blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Merlot) was aged in 80% new oak, an increased percentage of new French wood recommended by consultant Mia Klein. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by a sweet perfume of pure black fruits, licorice, vanilla, and smoke. The wine is supple, dense, opulent in the mouth, and long in the finish with low acidity and ripe, unobtrusive tannin. The fragrant 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Coach Insignia (which includes Malbec, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc in the final blend) exhibits up-front, sweet, tobacco-tinged black currant fruit, medium body, and fine purity, ripeness, and balance. It should drink well for 7-10 years. It should drink well for 10-15 years. Yummy!" (08/02) 90-92 points Stephen Tanzer: "Good bright ruby-red. Dusty aromas of cherry, blackberry and leather. Chewy, sappy and sweet, with impressive concentration of bright berries and black cherry. Layered and sophisticated cabernet. Finishes with big, dusty, even tannins and excellent persistence." (Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/Jun 03 |
| 2000 | Flora Springs Trilogy | Red Wine | 2A8-10 | 60 | 3 | 91wa |
| Offers a deep ruby color as well as a sweet bouquet of white flowers, red and black currants, and spicy new oak, a sweet attack, a delicate style, fine balance, and a reasonably long finish. Beautiful fruit and harmony. Wine Advocate |
| 2001 | Flora Springs Trilogy | Red Wine | 2A6-7 | 60 | 2 | 91rp |
| "(90-91) points" The brilliant 2001 vintage is well represented by the 2001 Trilogy, a 10,000 case blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Malbec. This dense ruby/purple-colored effort exhibits a sweet bouquet of flowers, mulberries, jammy black cherries, currants, licorice, and dried herbs. Elegant and medium-bodied with loads of fruit, this finesse-styled California red is already drinking beautifully, but there is plenty of upside given its tannic structure. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2014. Drink: 2004-2014 Wine Advocate #150 (Dec 2003) Robert Parker |
| 2000 | Forman | Cabernet | 3D2 | 63 | 1 | 90rp |
| 2004-2015 rp Ric Forman’s Francophile leanings are clear in his winemaking philosophy. He prefers to craft (as Parker commented) “elegant, exceptionally ageworthy wines” on the model of fine Bordeaux. A swirl of cassis, minerals and sexy black fruit nuances, this one offers depth and dimension well beyond the norm. It also begs for cellar time. Ric’s reds typically start their best years around their 10th birthday, so have no fear of this one heading downhill on you. This is California Cab with flavor and guts. 90 PTS WILFRED WONG. Nearly dense and brooding, the finely compacted '00 Forman Cabernet is one of Napa Valley's best designed wines; tasty now with some edges; great in about a half-a-dozen years |
| 2001 | Forman | Cabernet | 3C10-3D1 | 63 | 3 | 93rp |
| RP93" ONE OF FORMAN'S FINEST EFFORTS TO DATE,...A SEAMLESS CLASSIC BOASTING...MEDIUM TO FULL BODY, AND ABUNDANT QUANTITIES OF BLACK CURRANTS, LICORICE, TABACCO LEAF, AND EARTH..." LOVE IT THROUGH 2023 |
| 2004 | Forman | Cabernet | 3C9 | 80 | 1 | 92st |
| 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "(bottled in August of 2006; 14.8% alcohol; 60% new oak) Good bright ruby-red. Aromas of blackberry, blueberry, licorice and aromatic spices. Richer and seemingly riper than the young 2005, but with lovely definition to the flavors of redcurrant and sour cherry. This features a lusher, softer, sweeter middle followed by chewier and more obvious tannins that showed a firmer edge with aeration." 91 points Robert Parker: "The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon (includes Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Merlot in the blend) spent 20 months in barrels prior to bottling. Dark ruby/purple with a restrained but sweet nose of black currants, plums, damp earth, licorice, and white chocolate, it is an elegant, medium-bodied, opulent effort with sweet tannin and a long finish. This is a strong vintage for Forman’s Cabernet, and it should age nicely for 15 or more years." (12/06) |
| 2004 | Francis Coppola Sofia Blanc De Blanc | Sparkling Wine | display | 20 | 1 | 87bd |
| Beverage Dynamics 87 Points The 2004 Sofia Blanc de Blancs exudes a delicate perfume of ripe apricots, tangerine, and pear. Bright flavors of summer melon and zesty lemon unfold on the palate with honeysuckle emerging on the crisp, vibrant finish. |
| Gift from mom (display don't drink ) |
| 1999 | Freemark Abbey Bosche' | Cabernet | UT | 68 | 3 | 91ws |
| 91 points from the Wine Spectator, which lists this wine at $68! "Pleasantly earthy, rich and loamy, with a complex array of fresh earth, currant, sage and herb. Smooth, long and concentrated, with supple tannins sustaining the flavors. Drink now through 2012." (11/03) Awarded One Puff from the Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: "An attractive aroma of currants, loam, eucalyptus and sweet oak leads to a supple, smooth entry and flavors that reflect the nose while being somewhat less intense than would seem to be advertised. Still, the wine is suitably fruity and offers plenty of range in a style that would seem to invite earlier rather than later consumption." Drink now through 2012 (Volume 28 Issue 2: December 2003) |
| 2001 | Freemark Abbey Bosche' | Cabernet | UT | 68 | 2 | 96we |
| 96we Freemark Abbey Bosche Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 is "...one of the best Cabs of the vintage. It's still a young wine, all primary black currant and plum fruit flavors and toasted oak, with complex notes of coffee and mocha. This wine is extraordinarily rich and finely balanced, displaying power, elegance, finesse and an unreal depth of fruit along with great length. Drink now through 2015." - Wine Enthusiast |
| 2002 | Freemark Abbey Bosche' | Cabernet | UT | 60 | 1 | 94we |
| 94we The winery’s flagship single-vineyard Cab, from Rutherford, is extraordinarily rich and opulent, offering tiers of classic Cabernet flavors that don’t stop. Cassis, intense cherry, espresso, cocoa, dill, sweet anise, the list goes on and on. Marked by wonderful depth and balance, this long-lived wine is beautiful now and should improve through this decade before slowly winding down. — S.H. (12/15/2006) |
| 2005 | Frias Family Vineyards | Cabernet | 11D3 | 65 | 1 | |
| 1999 | Girard | Red Wine | 3B10-11 | 43 | 2 | 92we |
| 92we 91ws The 1999 Napa Valley Red recieved a 91 point rating and was selected by The Wine Spectator as one of the best Cabernet ’s under $50.Tight, dense and richly flavored, with firm currant, chocolate and blackberry flavors that are sharply focused. Reveals extra layers of depth and dimension. Firms up on the finish, where the tannins flex their muscles. Best from 2004 through 2012. 3,985 cases made. (JL) |
| NV | Gloria Ferrer 3ltr | Sparkling Wine | display | 100 | 1 | 90ws |
| 90ws drink by 2010 Spectator 90 Pts: "An exceptional value. Round and full-bodied, with rich, ripe apple, pear and honeydew melon flavors. This complex sparkler has a nice touch of yeast and doughy aro-mas that give it added flavor, turning creamy with a touch ofvanilla. Drink now through 2009. 65,000 cases made.From California. |
| gift from Jim & Maureen (display don't drink ) |
| 2001 | Goldshmidt Vineyard | Cabernet | 2D7 | 67 | 1 | 94b21 |
| 2001 Goldschmidt Cabernet Sauvignon Game Ranch Oakville: This Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a single vineyard source on a southeastern slope in the heart of the Alexander Valley. The vineyard is situated on a knoll east of the town of Geyserville and is comprised of a gravelly loam soil which allows for good control of irrigation producing wines of rich, concentrated flavors. Excellent exposure of the clusters combined with long hang time on the vine yields grapes possessing optimal ripeness and maximum varietal character. Goldschmidt Vineyards Cabernets are crafted with the best possible resources to achieve exceptional richness, quality and balance - the hallmarks of world-class wines. 94 points B21 92 PTS WILFRED WONG. A red wine with real teeth, the hard-driving '01 Goldschmidt Oakville Cabernet offers red and black fruit power that run throughout the wine; very impressive; great with a steak. 91we "Should hold and improve for five years in the cellar." |
| 1997 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A9-11 | 80 | 3 | 94w&s |
| "94 points" - Wine & Spirits - April, 2001- "Grgich made a grand 'WS"COMPLEX, IF A BIT RESTRAINED, OFFERING PLENTY OF RICHNESS...BEST FROM 2002 THROUGH 2012..."97, a massive Cabernet from start to finish, still youthful and unevolved. Tannins numb the surface of the wine, rich and black with a savor that cuts at the dark fruit like a knife. At first, that fruit is just as black as the tannins, an essence of the black skin of the grapes, then it builds from under the tannin to take on deeper, bolder plum flavors. It should lengthen out as it ages, but even now, it's great stuff." |
| 1999 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A8 | 70 | 1 | 94wn |
| 94wn Fabulous aromas of cherry, blueberry and sweet leather in a delicate dance with chocolate, mint, licorice and coffee. A panoply of layered flavors dazzle the palate with blackberry, blueberry, mint and chocolate leading the parade. An amazing, densely packed wineBroadly fruited and decked out with lots of lovely sweet spice that smacks a bit of root beer and cream, this deep and well-polished wine shows nicely at every point. It is full and fleshy in feel and is kept in balance by a proper spine of youthful tannins, and, if warmed by alcohol in its ripe finish, it does not let up in either fruit or richness. There are more intense and bombastic Cabernets to be had, but this one wins very good marks for its open and steady style. "92" points - Wine Enthusiast - May 2003 "90" points - EXCEPTIONAL - '03 Beverage Testing Institute "90" points - Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wines - April 2003 |
| 2001 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A6-7 | 65 | 2 | 94we |
| 94we One of the last releases from the class of ’01, this is a cellar candidate. It is a big, rich, unctuous wine, with gobs of black currant flavors wrapped up tight in a blanket of dusty tannins and new oak. You could drink it tonight with a great steak, but it will hold and improve for at least 10 years. Score: 94. —Steve Heimoff, February 01, 2006. Vote #1 Cabernet of over 6000 entries in the 2005 LA County Fair, the largest fair wine competition in the country ..93 FROM THE BEVERAGE TESTING INSTITUTE!A roller coaster start to the 2001 growing season led into nearperfect temperatures and cool nights during the last few months before harvest, ensuring fully ripe Cabernet grapes with mature phenolics and balanced acids and tannins. Our 2001 Cabernet displays Grgich Hills’ trademark bouquet of intense cassis and cedar, followed by more subtle nuances of roses, licorice, and dried cherries. On the palate, rich extraction is balanced by moderate tannins and acidity. Ripe black fruit, plums, and dark cherries harmonize in the mouth with notes of cigar box, anise, and spicy oak to form this elegant, full-bodied wine. The finish is concentrated and persistent, with layers of mocha, caramel, cassis, cherries, and vanilla. This young, structured wine should mature well over the next several years, developing additional complexity and depth of flavor. 90 PTS WILFRED WONG. Another solid effort from one of the Napa Valley's finest wineries; the '01 Grgich Hills Cabernet exhibits excellent ripe fruit flavors with a suggestion of sweet oak; delicious. |
| 2002 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A3-5 | 65 | 3 | 88ws |
| ws88 Lots of red fruits are evident on the nose and palate, with red cherry, black cherry and red currant. Firm and structured, this is a deftly balanced young wine supported by firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2012. cg87 % Merlot; 1% Cabernet Franc. This one is still on the youthful and reticent side and takes some time in the glass to evolve, but it gradually allows a good look at nicely oaked, medium-deep, curranty fruit before deferring to fairly hard-charging tannins. It clearly possesses the basic material for success, but it is also very clear in its need for age. Tag it for drinking in 2012, and know that it may grow for much longer. 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley In the glass our 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon's deep color promises rich flavors-and it delivers with cassis, blackberries and just a hint of earthy truffles and cedar. In the mouth, the wine is well balanced between acid and tannin and the smooth, velvety finish offers a touch of pepper. Enjoyable upon release, this is a wine that will gain even more complexity with some bottle age. The wine's fine structure and rich flavors make it perfect with grilled and braised meat dishes and hearty cheeses. |
| 2003 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A1-2 | 60 | 2 | 94w&s |
| 94 Wine & Spirits Review Surprisingly elegant for a 2003, this melds bright raspberry flavor with darker tones of savory black olives and freshly turned earth. The fruit character is beautifully floral, clean and fresh, a crush of berry flavor held in tense suspension with the tannin, so finely integrated that it's the fresh impression that lasts. Lovely to drink now with a roast leg of lamb, this will only get better with age. WN 90pts - Tasting Notes - 2003 marks the first vintage that Grgich Hills' Cabernet Sauvignon is estate grown. By blending wine from the Yountville vineyard with small amounts from the Rutherford and Calistoga vineyards, which are all farmed organically, a complex Cabernet Sauvignon is created with a distinctive personality. The result is a dark, muscular wine with intriguing aromas of licorice, cedar and blackberries with a hint of earthy truffles. Wonderfully drinkable upon release, the wine’s firm tannin structure promises it will benefit from aging GOLD MEDAL, 2007 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMP. A complex melange of great flavors, the black-fruited, sweet earth-like '03 Grgich Hills Cabernet sits at the top of genre; a true ultra-premium! |
| 1997 | Groth | Cabernet | 2B6 | 100 | 1 | 92ws |
| WS: Grows on you. Rich and earthy, with complex herb, currant, sage and cedary oak notes, all folding together nicely and finishing in a concentrated aftertaste. Best from 2002 through 2010. |
| 2000 | Groth | Cabernet | 2B4-5 | 50 | 2 | 90ww |
| 90 PTS WILFRED WONG. A solid example of Napa Valley Cabernet, the '00 Groth comes up with black fruit flavors that linger nicely on the palate; this is a great choice for short ribs on the grill. As is the case with more than a few of the better 2000s, this bright and balanced Cabernet steers away from boldness and bluster and instead keys on nicely defined, slightly loamy, cassis-like fruit with sweet oak as a complementary counterpoint. It is plump and supple in feel, and its neatly integrated tannins allow fruit to stay the course at the finish. If a touch soft to commend lengthy cellaring, it is bound to grow for several years yet can also be enjoyed in the present term. |
| 2002 | Groth | Cabernet | 2B3 | 55 | 1 | 91we |
| 90we This is a Cab that wouldn't stand out in a competitive blind tasting, because it's not a bruiser. Instead, it can claim balance, finesse, elegance and harmony. Everything's understated. But aficionados will savor the beautiful fruit and classic structure.(Wine Enthusiast) Winemaker Notes: The 2002 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon continues our pursuit of excellence from theville AVA. This outstanding vintage shows the ultimate character that we expect from our estate vineyards. With full, rich aromas and flavors redolent of ripe stone fruit and dark berries, the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon is a lush wine with a subtle tannin backbone that will allow the wine to become more complex with proper bottle age |
| 2005 | Groth | Cabernet | 2B2 | 59 | 1 | |
| Groth's 2005 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is as big and lush as an Oakville cab can be. Loaded with fruit on the nose and palate, the wine is characteristically supple with a subtle tannic backbone. Drink now with a lush filet or roast or cellar for the next 10-15 years. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is big and lush with huge gobs of fruit in the aroma and flavor. The texture of the wine is soft and supple, typical of Cabernet Sauvignons grown in our area of the Oakville AVA. Patience during bottle aging will reward the “steward” with an outstanding bottle over the next 10 to 15 years. 89 PTS WILFRED WONG. A subtle wine, the elegant and fairly complex '05 Groth Cabernet runs it flavors from red to black fruits with a hint of dried leaf and herb thrown in for good measure. |
| 2000 | Hartwell | Cabernet | 3C1 | 100 | 1 | 93w&s |
| w&s This is the third vintage of the Hartwell "Estate" Cabernet Sauvignon. Beginning in 1998, we decided to select only the very best lots from our small, twenty acres of planted vineyards on the Hartwell Estate. These vineyards share a variety of hillside exposures; soils and clones that make the decision on what grapes to use an exciting challenge. The 2000 Hartwell Estate 100% Cabernet Sauvignon displays a very dark, almost opaque ruby color with forward, deep, rich aromas of dark plums and cassis with hints if toasty oak in the background. This full bodied wine has concentrated black cherry and blackberry flavors on the palate that are ripe, expansive and wonderfully complimented by a long, lingering finish that features a hallmark of Stags Leap District wines: soft tannins. Beautifully structured for drinking now, the 2000 Hartwell Estate Cabernet Sauvignon will develop additional complexity over the next ten years and live on for many more. "The supple and rich characteristics that have brought fame to the region are here captured in Hartwell's second-tier bottling, and there is plenty of ripe cherry fruit to fill in the open and inviting structure. A bit of finishing tannin asks for three to five years of cellaring to soften out fully, but even now, it is no barrier to the wine's enjoyable nature." |
| 1997 | Heitz Trailside | Cabernet | 11B4-5 | 86 | 2 | 92ws |
| 92ws Wonderful sense of harmony and proportion, with rich, supple black cherry, plum and wild berry fruit, with touches of chocolate and mocha. Ends in a long, powerful, multilayered finish. Intense and concentrated, with smooth tannins. Best from 2003 through 2012. 4,006 cases made. |
| 2001 | Hewitt | Cabernet | 11D5 | 80 | 1 | 93ws |
| 93 PTS WINE SPECTATOR; Sleek; rich and concentrated; with a purity of flavors that are tight and focused; with layers currant; blackberry; minerals and fresh herbs; long and compact finish. Limited 93CG As full and plush as any recommended Cabernet in this issue, the Hewitt bottling is expansive in aroma and mouthfilling where it counts. Its outgoing ripe grape, cassis, caramel, forest and cocoa scents are reiterated in flavors that are convincing in their deep, inviting fruit. Tannins frame the latter palate and finish, and if the wine is a little on the soft front/tough back side in construct, it needs but a half dozen years of aging to show at its best with savory roasts and chops |
| 2002 | Hollywood & Vine 2480 | Cabernet | 8C1 | 79 | 1 | 91ws |
| 91 points Wine Spectator: "Open-throttle Cabernet; bold, rich and polished, with layers of currant, wild berry, blackberry and jazzy coconut- and vanilla-scented oak. The tannins are firm and intense, with a touch of leather peeking through on the finish. Drink now through 2012." (05/05) K&L's notes - The Hollywood & Vine 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested from four distinctive, ultra-premium vineyard locations. A blend of Cabernet vineyards on Mt. Veeder, Atlas Peak, the historic JJ Cohn Estate in Rutherford, and the pedigreed Davis Station in Oakville combine the best of steep hillside structure with the opulent fruit intensity of the mid-valley benchland vineyards. Fermented on skins for approximately three weeks, then transferred to barrels (60% new French oak). The wine was aged in small oak for approximately 21 months. This baby displays an abundance of ripe blackberry and black currant aromas, bright plums, sweet vanilla and cocoa tones. The palate texture is bright, rich and mouth-filling, with fresh fruit flavors. |
| 2004 | Hunnicutt | Cabernet | 2D5 | 48 | 1 | 92we |
| 92 points from Wine Enthusiast: "Although this Cab is incredibly ripe and appealing in cassis, cherry, vanilla and almost white chocolate fudge flavors, somehow it manages to maintain balance and elegance. That’s because it’s thoroughly dry, and because of those gorgeously ripe Napa tannins, so fine and elegant." (11/1/07) Napa native Kirk Venge (son of winemaker Nils Venge;Saddleback Cellars) joins Justin Hunnicutt Stephens and Seana Stephens at Hunnicutt, a small, terroir-driven winery in the Napa Valley. Black cherry, vanilla, eucalyptus and cinnamon stick notes give way to dark fruit, toast, dried cherry and blueberries on the palate. Decant for a half hour before drinking or lay down for a couple of years and watch this evolve. |
| 2003 | Husic | Cabernet | 9B6 | 103 | 1 | 94 |
| 94vf 07-2015 From the Celia Masyczek tasting: Very intense nose showing lavender, super dark fruit with hints of bittersweet chocolate and wild blackberry. The palate is extracted with more berry, anise and spicy creme de cassis. Polished tannins are very approachable. The 2003 Husic Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Dos Palmas is very, very dark in color, and shows deep chocolate-cherry aromas that evolve into raspberry cordial and warm clove/spice tones. Soft and rich at entry, the fruit-infused flavors combine with hints of grilled anise and cocoa. The wine shows remarkable density and structure, yet very supple tannins, a testimony to this perfect growing season, which yielded small quantities of intensely flavored grapes. This wine is lush and mouth filling now, but its broad, well-defined structure indicates it will age beautifully for many years to come. |
| 2002 | Hyde & de Villaine | Red Wine | 10C1 | 75 | 1 | 93cg |
| 93cg 90% Merlot; 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. It may go by a generic title, and its stately structure does bring fine claret to mind, but its ongoing themes of ripe cherries provide this bottling with an indelible varietal stamp. It gathers more richness from its liberal complement of tantalizing oak, and its unmistakable message of fruit is in no way lessened by the late arrival of tannins. It will prove enjoyable now with richer beef preparations, but it will keep very well and comes with a five-year prognosis of further refinement and complexityThanks to the maturity of the grapes, careful fruit sorting and patient fermentation, our HdV Red shows layers of black cherry fruit and a gentle sweetness. This distinctive profile gives to the immediate drinker a key to appreciate the young wine. The combination of sweet spices, firm tannins and a solid frame of acidity contribute to the long finish of the wine. However, like the 2001, the 2002 HdV Red will prove its full potential within the next two to ten years.-Winery" |
| 2003 | J Lohr Hilltop | Cabernet | 5D7-8 | 30 | 2 | |
| Very dark, youthful red-purple in color, the 2003 vintage of J. Lohr Hilltop Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon has elegant aromas of black cherries, blackberries and black currants, with a bouquet of mint and toasty oak. The 2003 Hilltop Cabernet is a plump, mouthful of wine with a suppleness and ample texture and balance, reminiscent of Bordeaux’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines with the structure to age for 10 to 15 years. Enjoy with rosemary-infused lamb, beef bourguignon, and rich vegetable stews. |
| 2004 | J Lohr Hilltop | Cabernet | 5D4-6 | 30 | 3 | 90we |
| Wine Enthusiast A lush, sexy wine, this is the next step up the J. Lohr hierarchy from the Seven Oaks line. Smoky, herbal notes on the nose accent the ripe cassis fruit, ending in an avalanche of soft, velvety tannins. Score: 90. October 01, 2007. Very dark, youthful purple red in color, the Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon has elegant aromas of black currants, black cherry, and violets with a bouquet of roasted coffee, tar and toasty oak. The Hilltop is a plump, mouthful of wine with a suppleness and ample texture and balance, reminiscent of Bordeaux finest Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines with the structure to age for 10 to 15 years. |
| 2001 | J Lohr Hilltop 375ml | Cabernet | WB | 20 | 3 | 88we |
| 88we Still young, fresh and vibrant, this Cab also is still dense in tannins, so be forewarned, although it’s nothing that rich fare can’t handle. It seems to be built for the cellar. The only concern is an overripe raisiny taste that would limit ageability. Score: 88. —Steve Heimoff, April 01, 2006. Very dark, youthful purple red in color, the 2001 vintage of Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon has elegant aromas of black currants, black cherry, and violets with a bouquet of roasted coffee, tar and toasty oak. The 2001 Hilltop is a plump, mouthful of wine with a suppleness and ample texture and balance, reminiscent of Bordeaux's finest Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines with the structure to age for 10 to 15 years. |
| 2003 | Jax | Cabernet | 3B3 | 44 | 1 | |
| JAX Vineyards produce this distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon by dry-farming the estate's thirty-seven year old vines. At the foot of Mt. St. Helena, in Napa Valley, the vineyards bask in the ideal conditions of the northern Calistoga sun. Working together, the Jacksons (Jane, Dave, Kimberly and Trent) select the optimal grapes from their vineyard to produce their tenth vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy! Deep ruby red hues complimenting the ripe red cherry nose. This wine reveals strong tannins backed by layers of dark cherry and cassis fruit (signature fruit flavors o |
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