Composed of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon and 41% Merlot (89% from Sonoma and 11% from Napa), the 1999 is a much younger wine than the 1998 and still has some upside potential. A deep ruby/purple color is followed by notes of graphite, unsmoked high class cigar tobacco, black currants and flowers. Round and generous with some tannins in the finish, it is close to full maturity and should drink well for another 15+ years.

Firm, with compact dill- and earth-laced currant, olive and blackberry. Turns tannic and leathery and reflects plenty of charred-oak aging, and while it's well-structured, the dry oakiness on the finish is a concern. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2003 through 2008. 1,900 cases made. -JL

Richer and more complete than the ’98 La Joie, with which it was simultaneously released. This wine shows its mountain origins in its tough young tannins and hard edges, but there is enough cherry and blackberry fruit for the long haul. Oak adds vanilla and toast, but this is a wine you need to cellar until 2009.——S.H.(11/15/2003)—— 90