For those with considerable patience, the 1993 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is the most backward, structured, formidably tannic wine of the three 1993 cuvees of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It exhibits an opaque ruby/purple color, a tight but promising nose of minerals and black fruits, dense, full-bodied flavors, and significant tannic clout in the finish. It requires cellaring until the turn of the century and should last for 20 years thereafter. Winemaker/proprietor Gary Andrus is frequently hitting the bull's eye. If readers have not followed Pine Ridge's recent releases, they should give the wines reviewed in this issue a try as just about everything has increased significantly in quality. All of these wines will be bottled without fining or filtration. Tasting 1994 cuvees of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot at Pine Ridge's magnificent underground caves made me think that this will be the vintage that pushes this well-run winery into Napa Valley's top echelon. Tel. (707) 253-7500

For those with considerable patience, the 1993 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is the most backward, structured, formidably tannic wine of the three 1993 cuvees of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It exhibits an opaque ruby/purple color, a tight but promising nose of minerals and black fruits, dense, full-bodied flavors, and significant tannic clout in the finish. It requires cellaring until the turn of the century and should last for 20 years thereafter.Winemaker/proprietor Gary Andrus is frequently hitting the bull's eye. If readers have not followed Pine Ridge's recent releases, they should give the wines reviewed in this issue a try as just about everything has increased significantly in quality. All of these wines will be bottled without fining or filtration. Tasting 1994 cuvees of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot at Pine Ridge's magnificent underground caves made me think that this will be the vintage that pushes this well-run winery into Napa Valley's top echelon.Tel. (707) 253-7500

Well oaked, with a smoky edge to the currant and berry edge. Tight and a bit lean, though it fans out on the finish. Cellar. Drink now through 1996. 1,526 cases made.??–null??Region: California / Napa / Howell Mountain Select to Add