The most backward tannic and closed was the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville. Plenty of cedarwood, vanilla, black currant fruit and licorice jump from the glass of this dense, purple-colored wine. This fruit came from the Vine Hill Ranch and is full-bodied, tannic and behaving more like a Bordeaux than your typical Napa Cabernet Sauvignon – especially the 2004. This wine has impressive density and I could see the score going up 2-4 points over the next 5-10 years. It certainly has 15-20 years of life left in it. These wines were made when Tony Soter was still living in Napa Valley. As most readers probably know, he remains a consultant at Etude after the Beringer empire purchased it. He has moved to Oregon where he’s turning out Pinot Noir and absolutely stunning sparkling rose. All three of these wines performed brilliantly. Tel. (877) 586-9361

Firm, rich and structured, with spicy berry, sandalwood, cedary oak and loamy earth flavors that offer depth and complexity, ending with a spicy, earthy, leathery aftertaste. Best from 2009 through 2016. 324 cases made.??–JL??Region: California / Napa / Oakville Select to Add