1 | Wine | United States, 2008

"Notably elegant and refined, this is polished at points, firm on the finish. The core black cherry and blackberry flavors are fresh and lively."

"Our 2008 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a dark, rich full-bodied wine with great tannic structure and mouth-feel. It has a garnet color and a nose of ripe boysenberries, cherry liqueur, dark chocolate, sandalwood and a hint of roasting meat. On the palate, it is mouth-coating and incredibly rich in umami. It has a very long, savory finish with the slight grip of fine-grained tannins. Given proper cellaring, this wine should give drinking pleasure through 2030."

"The 2008 Columbia Valley Merlot offers up aromas of balsam wood, spice box, tobacco, violets, cassis, and blackberry. Savory on the palate, if slightly austere, another 1-2 years of bottle should fill the wine out."

"A festive bubbly, with pretty floral cherry and lemon notes that lead to round, supple flavors of pear, raspberry and spicy vanilla."

"This is a richer, deeper style than the Rincon. Layers of dark cherries and plums emerge from this fleshy, pliant Pinot Noir. The inner sweetness and perfume weave through effortlessly to a round, inviting finish."

"This classic Merlot opens with vibrant aromas of cherry, red plum, pomegranate, cardamom and forest floor. The aromas carry over onto the palate and meld with additional notes of milk chocolate, vanilla and dark spice. The tannins are supple yet have good grip, suggesting that this Merlot be served with hearty dishes such as rack of lamb, herbstuffed turkey or roasted duck in a cherry sauce."