Full saturated ruby. Knockout superripe nose of black plum, black raspberry, tobacco, minerals, brown spices and hot stones; distinct notes of torrefaction. Very dense and deep, with powerful backbone and great length on the palate. Like a great claret, the wine flavors go far beyond mere fruit. This is remarkably ripe for a California cab-based wine from this vintage, but has the spine for long development in bottle.

Rating: 99/100 - As reviewed in Wine Advocate # 120 on Dec-98