The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellie’s comes across as more reserved and structured than the 2009. It shows gorgeous delineation in its dark fruit, along with hints of asphalt, tar and smoke that add complexity. The 2010 Ellie’s is vibrant and totally polished. The French oak also appears to be better balanced. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. This is a thrilling set of wines from Hall. The estate favors a rich, extroverted style, yet all of these wines have distinct personalities and tons of sheer character. Meticulous viticulture followed by native yeast fermentations, slow, natural malos and minimal rackings are at the heart of the approach at Hall. The wines are aged in French oak (mostly Taransaud, 40-90% new) and are bottled with no fining or filtration. Readers who appreciate the more opulent side of Napa Valley will find much to admire here. Simply put, I was blown away by what I tasted. As outstanding as the 2009s are, there is a very good chance the 2010s will turn out to be even better.Tel. (707) 967-2626

The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellie’s is a deep, super-ripe wine loaded with black cherries, plums, chocolate and sweet spices. This is a decidedly opulent expression of Cabernet, with plenty of mid-palate richness and density. Warm notes of mocha and spices round out the generous finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. This is a thrilling set of wines from Hall. The estate favors a rich, extroverted style, yet all of these wines have distinct personalities and tons of sheer character. Meticulous viticulture followed by native yeast fermentations, slow, natural malos and minimal rackings are at the heart of the approach at Hall. The wines are aged in French oak (mostly Taransaud, 40-90% new) and are bottled with no fining or filtration. Readers who appreciate the more opulent side of Napa Valley will find much to admire here. Simply put, I was blown away by what I tasted. As outstanding as the 2009s are, there is a very good chance the 2010s will turn out to be even better.Tel. (707) 967-2626