Beautiful in every respect, this has ripe flavors of blackberries, blueberries and cassis. It shows the classic Oakville structure of firm, hard tannins, elegance and ageworthiness. Made from 100% Cabernet, it will reward holding until at least 2018. — (11/1/2012) —94

The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Branding Iron Vineyard is one of the more brooding wines in this lineup. Iron, dark cherries, tobacco and incense are some of the nuances that emerge from this taut, structured Cabernet Sauvignon. It shows terrific length and follow-through to the virile, potent finish. This is a decidedly focused, structured wine that needs time for the tannins to start melting away. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028. Tel. (707) 967-9600

This 100% Cabernet is the ripest and sweetest of the winery’s 2008 offerings, but it still shows the tannins that are Nickel & Nickel’s mark. The vineyard is in west Oakville, and offers that region’s superbly lush, delicious blackberry, blueberry and cherry flavors. Those tannins, while firm, are sweetly ripe, giving the wine an oxymoronic soft toughness.——S.H.(11/1/2011)—— 92

The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Branding Iron Vineyard exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as opulent black currant and cherry fruit judiciously touched by hints of oak and graphite. Elegant yet powerful, rich, supple and exuberant with sweet tannins, it should be enjoyed over the next 10-15 years. 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