An opulent, polished Cabernet, made by the well-known vintner Paul Hobbs. It’s rich and ripe in blackberry, cassis and chocolate flavors, with ultrasmooth tannins and a long, spicy finish. A bit on the hot, sweet side, but a wine for drinking over the next few years.——S.H.(9/1/2011)—— 90

This is a tight young Cabernet, marked by fresh acidity and firm tannins. The vineyard sourcing is all southern Napa, from cooler mountain and flatland areas in this cool vintage. The wine, which has some Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, is nowhere near ready. Through the astringency, however, erupts a blast of blackberry, black cherry and cassis fruit, with an elaborate but tasteful coating of flashy new oak. Needs serious time. Should blossom after 2014, and develop for many years after. ——S.H.(5/1/2011)—— 93