Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 95 points

There are 3,900 cases of the prodigious 1997 Cardinale, comprised primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon with a tiny dollop of Merlot. The wine has an opaque bluish black/purple color, a knockout nose of black cherry liqueur intermixed with cassis, lead pencil, mineral, and smoky oak. The glorious richness in the mouth is backed up by a full-bodied, opulently-textured, super-extracted wine that is neither heavy nor ponderous. Stunning purity, a fabulous multi-layered impression, and a finish that goes on for nearly a minute make this the most exciting Cardinale to date.

Review date: December 2000

Wine Spectator: 93 points

Wonderfully proportioned, smooth and ripe, with rich black cherry, currant, wild berry and spice, offering depth and complexity, turning elegant and sophisticated. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2001 through 2009. 3,900 cases made. ?JL

Review date: October 2000