2004 Lail Vineyards J. Daniel Cuvee Napa Valley

Bright medium ruby. Wonderfully nuanced nose combines dark berries, black cherry, licorice and graphite minerality. Quite juicy and penetrating, even a bit youthfully tight, and much less thick than the 2003 and 2002 examples, but boasts terrific purity, definition and lift to its dark fruit, mineral and intriguing spice flavors. This really dances on the palate and stimulates the taste buds on the long, rising finish. The tannins are noble and horizontal, spreading out to saturate the palate. (ST) Review Date: May 2019

From one of the grandes dames of Napa Valley, Robin Lail’s 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon J. Daniel Cuvee (96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Merlot aged 20 months in 75% new French oak) exhibits a complex, multidimensional style. Its dark plum/ruby/purple color is followed by abundant notes of sweet black cherry and black currant fruit intertwined with notions of licorice and loamy, earthy undertones. With sweet tannin and a full-bodied mouthfeel, this fragrant, beautifully pure and textured wine should continue to drink well for another 15+ years. The finish lasts 40-50 seconds. (RP) Review Date: April 2014