The 2000 season began with a cool late spring, which delayed flowering and set the stage for a harvest that was three to four weeks later than normal. Cool weather in early September added to our worries, but sunny skies in October were enough to fully ripen all but the very latest vineyards of Cabernet. Merlot and Cabernet Franc, which ripen a week to two weeks earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon, were especially successful in contributing ripe flavors to the blend. This wine displays aromas of ce...

Leading with direct, well-ripened, cherry and cocoa aromas and following with glycerin-fattened flavors that are long on initial appeal, this full but very slightly hollow wine toughens up as it crosses the palate. Its fruit falters slightly as dryness and pushy tannins define its finish, yet it might fill out more fully with a bit of cellaring, however, and its moderate price makes the gamble well worth taking.

Rating: 87/100 - As reviewed by Wine Spectator on 11/15/03

Rating for United States-California: 96 (excellent)<br/><br/>Drinkability: too young, let it sit<br/>