Both the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate and 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa are also narrowly constructed. The latter wine, which I assume is made from purchased fruit, exhibits more ripe fruit, but again, lots of oak. I have higher hopes for Duckhorn's 2007s than the bevy of 2006s I tasted. While they are good, most had issues with hard, aggressive tannins as well as high acid levels that give the wines clipped personalities. In short, if a wine tastes too tannic, it is too tannic, and that may be the problem with Duckhorn's 2006s. Readers should note that any wine that received a score with a question mark will undoubtedly dry out and become hollow before it ever blossoms. Tel. (888) 354-8885; Fax (707) 963-7595

Bordeaux-like in its structure and restraint, offering trim cedar, anise, dried currant and light mocha. Full-bodied and firmly tannic, this holds its focus and ends with a persistent finish. Drink now through 2016. 13,744 cases made. -JL