An ambitious first release. Shows authentically dry, crisp Russian River ripeness, with a vast array of black cherries, raspberries, Dr. Pepper cola and Asian spices, enriched with plenty of new French oak, and balanced with crisp acidity and ultra-refined tannins. Feels silky and impressive in the mouth. Very fine now, and should hold in the bottle through 2012, at least.——S.H.(12/1/2009)—— 93