Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 89 points

This proprietary red wine is a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot, and 2% Malbec. A complex nose of cedar, black fruits, tobacco, spice box, and new wood emerges from this dark ruby/purple-colored effort. Rich and moderately tannic, with excellent to outstanding flavor extraction and overall balance, this 1996 should prove to be long-lived and satisfying. The texture is rich, not compressed or clipped, and the acidity, tannin, and alcohol are well-integrated. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2016.Tel. (707) 963-1616

Review date: June 2000