Immensely ripe, just explosive in young Cabernet flavors, and wrapped in those Howell tannins that require extensive cellaring. The wine, nearly 100% Cab, is totally dry and very oaky, from 100% new, small French barrels. But it’s easily big enough in black currant, cherry and cocoa flavors to handle all that wood. Drinkable now, after decanting, with rich, fatty meats, and through 2020. ——S.H.(12/15/2006)—— 92