93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot. The Oroppas opens with enticing aromas of blueberry jam, red cherry, raspberry, milk chocolate, clove and brown sugar. Black cherry, raspberry jam, caramel, and dark chocolate flavors greet the palate, and the rich fruit flavors are supported by structured, yet velvety tannins. Black pepper, candied apple and dark chocolate linger on the palate for a long, complex finish. Hillside Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards on Diamond and Howell Mountain, as well as Mount Veeder, contributed to the blend along with valley floor fruit from Rutherford and St. Helena. read more...The addition of seven percent Merlot from Star Vineyard in Rutherford adds a bright red fruit component and length in the mid-palate. Each lot was aged separately in fifty percent new French oak barrels for nineteen months, and then blended together before bottling.    (hide)

Rating: 91/100 - As reviewed by Wine & Spirits Magazine on 12/08

Robert Parker 91 Points

Rating for United States-California: 95 (slightly better than average year)<br/><br/>Drinkability: too young, let it sit<br/>

01.02.10 after dinner

Drank it at Emeril's