A few issues back, Star Lane's basic Cabernet earned glowing praise, and this, its fancier sibling, does the same. Big, optimally ripened and positively plush on the palate, it delivers a wealth of luscious, curranty fruit with the sweet, vanilla-bean trappings of first-rate oak making it all the more enticing. It is so fruity that its late-arriving tannins come as a surprise reminder that it is still very young, and a better wine will yet await the collector who can exercise five years of patien...

Inky ruby. Sexy aromas of cherry pie and dark berry compote, with notes of incense, pipe tobacco and potpourri adding complexity. Pliant, deeply concentrated blackberry and cassis flavors are framed by gentle tannins and pick up exotic fruitcake and cinnamon notes with air. At once rich and energetic, with strong finishing sweetness and an echo of candied flowers.

Community Tasting Notes (average 92.3 pts. and median of 93 pts. in 6 notes)

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

Easter 2010. received from Dan Molina while in corporate development. April loved it!<br/>

Good rich tasting wine Aug. 4