Somewhat restrained, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece has a touch of Petite Verdot and Merlot in the blend. It displays a dense purple color and plenty of smoky notes intermixed with scorched earth, espresso roast, chocolate, and black currant. In the back, the tannins kick in, so this wine needs a few years of cellaring, but should keep for two decades.All of these wines are made by winemaking consultant David Ramey. I looked at some 2009 cuvees , the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa, 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain, 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellie’s, 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece, and 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld. All of these wines should score between 90 and 95 points as they all have deep colors, beautiful pure fruit, the vintage’s tell-tale front-end loaded sweetness, balance and elegance as well as good freshness and depth. My favorites include the Diamond Mountain, Ellie’s, and Jack’s Masterpiece, with the latter being the most tannic along with the Bergfeld. All of these should be top-notch Cabernet Sauvignons that will last 20-25 years. If you haven’t jumped on the Hall bandwagon, it has been loaded with goodies for the last 3-4 years.Tel. (707) 967-2626; Fax (707) 967-2639

Solidly in the Hall style of voluptuous, stylish Cabernets, rich in fruit and softly sweet. With a flood of blackberries, cassis and chocolate, it’s intricately structured with finely ground tannins that give a sting of astringency. Probably best consumed soon with rich beef dishes. ——S.H.(11/1/2011)—— 90