Abreu was clear about his phenomenally successful 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon Madrona Ranch (one of the half-dozen or so superstars of the vintage). He said the year was so cold that over one-half of his crop had to be cut off to accentuate maturity in the remainder of the grapes. A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Merlot, the 1998 boasts an opaque blue/purple color, as well as an explosive nose of black olives, licorice, new saddle leather, cassis, and blueberries. Soft, plush, and opulently-textured, it will offer gorgeous drinking young, yet will evolve effortlessly for 20 years. Bravo for an amazing accomplishment in what appears to be the most inconsistent vintage for North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon since 1988.Fax (707) 963-5104