Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: 90 points

Good ruby-red. Spicy, roasted aromas of cassis, black plum, toasty oak and pepper. Lush, jammy and a bit undifferentiated; showing its baby fat today. Seems distinctly less lively than the '95, but the tannins are quite fine for the vintage and there excellent finishing persistence.

Review date: May 1999

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 93 points

Medium garnet-brick colored, the 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate features notions of cassis, warm blackberries and eucalypt with touches of mocha, smoked meats and sandalwood plus a waft of pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with rich, savory flavors, with a chewy frame and just enough vivacity, finishing long and meaty.

Review date: February 2018