Good full, bright ruby. Precise aromas of blackberry, minerals, menthol, cedar and slate. Supple and suave, with a slightly high-toned quality to the dark berry and bitter chocolate flavors. A real crushed-berry bomb, with good acid cut and supple broad tannins. Steve Pride noted that this wine was more aggressive in the mid-'90s; the winery introduced a gentler destemmer with vintage 2008 and is now pressing the fruit more gently. There's now less in the way of oak tannins in the finished wines, he added.

This tight, well-structured red is firm, with dried currant, blackberry, black licorice, anise, cedar and gravel flavors leading to a full body. Ends with a cleansing, refreshing aftertaste. Best from 2012 through 2019. 5,270 cases made.

Hugely delicious, just a joy to drink. So soft and velvety, so rich in blackberry jam, cassis and chocolate flavors, with the tannins so smooth and round. Really wonderful over the next few years, although the softness and high alcohol suggest it's not an ager.

The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon is a beautiful wine graced with expressive red fruit, flowers, licorice and tobacco. This mid-weight, understated wine impresses for its focus, length and fine overall balance. Floral notes round out the fleshy, generous finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.