From the red, rocky soils adjacent to the Silverado Trail on the eastern side of Oakville, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard reveals an opaque ruby/purple color similar to the Kelham cuvee, but it possesses more restrained aromatics of chocolate, cassis and spice box. As with all of these wines, the wood component is pushed well to the background. The wine is full-bodied, rich, pure, powerful and impressive. Abundant tannins are largely concealed by a cascade of deep, concentrated fruit. This 2007 should drink well for two decades or more. An impressive group of 2007 Cabernet Sauvignons from the Gil Nickel family represents an Oakville terroir lesson with the exception of the State Ranch which comes from a vineyard further south in Yountville.Tel. (707) 967-9600

The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard’s dark ruby/purple hue is followed by straightforward aromas of damp earth and black currants. Tart acidity, which tends to exaggerate the sharp tannin, medium body, and little depth or intensity are found in this clean, pleasant, straightforward Cabernet. Drink it over the next 5-8 years. Tel. (707) 944-0693