This is one good Cabernet with all its pieces in place: fruit-sweet and nutty on the nose, with a juicy blackberry and black cherry core and a gravelly, minerally texture. It’s not as mouthfilling and plush as it has been in recent vintages, but it’s still an enjoyable wine. Imported by Xanadu Normans Wine Group. ——D.T.(10/1/2005)—— 88

Call it what you want—big-boned, broad-chested, varon—but this is a manly, sizeable wine, and laudable because it doesn't have some of the cloying, messy richness that big Cabs can sometimes have. Smells of black pepper, and cola or root beer. There's mixed plum fruit, lively acids and gripping tannins on the palate and the finish. Does let up with air, but still probably best after 2007.——D.T.(12/31/2004)—— 92