Haven’t seen this unusual combination of grapes in quite some time, and you know what, it’s much better now than when we last saw it in 2001. This vintage has a nice, almost magnetic nose, while the palate is firm and well structured, with cassis, black cherry, coffee and licorice flavors. It’s a bit boring on the finish, but the mouthfeel and length are just fine. Fruity, rich and balanced. 325 cases made.——M.S.(5/1/2009)—— 88

Unusual indeed. The blend is Cabernet, Zinfandel and Shiraz, and frankly it’s a mish-mash of oak, espresso and sour fruit. Extremely lemony, with a fair amount of green. In no way does the fruit stand up to the huge pounding of oak it takes. Out of whack.——M.S.(2/1/2005)—— 81