The 2003 Melbury comes from a slopeside site on the northern side of Lake Hennessey, opposite the Rutherford valley floor. Winemaker Bob Levy compares the 2003 to the 2006 because of the wet winter and spring and the summer’s heat spikes. A brilliant effort from sedimentary soil with rocks over compacted clay, it is a gorgeous wine offering raspberry, black currant, spring flower and blueberry characteristics along with a dense purple color, a full-bodied, multilayered mouthfeel and sweet tannin. This stunningly rich hillside Cabernet Sauvignon should reach full maturity in 4-5 years and keep for 15-20 years thereafter. The single vineyard wines represent Bill Harlan’s concept of offering single vineyard, micro-climate/terroir-based wines from distinctive sectors of Napa Valley. Tel. (707) 944-1441

The classic, structured 2003 Melbury offers beautiful blueberry, blackberry, and cassis notes interwoven with notions of spring flowers and espresso. This pure, full-bodied, opulent, silky 2003 should age for 10-15 years. Previously recommended: 2002 Matriarch (90), 2002 Melbury (96), 2002 St. Eden (95), 2002 Vecina (95+).Tel. 707.944.9445, Fax. 707.944.9554, Email info@bondestates.com

Rich and concentrated, with tiers of currant, blackberry and black cherry that run deep and pure, gaining momentum midpalate and ending with a strong, intense, focused finish. Shows a trace of heat, but delivers lots of enticing flavors. Best from 2007 through 2013. 700 cases made. -JL

Fairly high in alcohol, this sumptuous red wine is almost sweet in fudgy, macaroon, cherry pie filling and chocolate truffle flavors, with a candied opulence all the way through. Yet it’s dry. The 100% new oak adds to the caramelly, meringue taste. Elegant and voluptuous, it’s an unabashed beauty, firmly in the Harlan style.——S.H.(2/1/2007)—— 94