2008 Nicholas Allen Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Carte Blanche Napa Valley

Fresh, plump and juicy, deep and concentrated, this full-bodied red delivers rich, lively plum, black cherry, blackberry, black licorice and spicy cedar flavors, with hints of tar. Shows both power and finesse, ending with loamy tannins. Best from 2013 through 2023. 300 cases made. ?JL Review Date: August 2011

The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon bursts from the glass with layers of black fruit, spices, menthol and minerals. It shows great intensity in its fruit, as it builds to the muscular, explosive finish. In 2008 this site was hit hard by the spring frost. According to Luc Morlet the vineyard was also affected by smoke taint from the fires that year, but frankly, that note is very, very faint in this wine, and similar notes also come through in the 2009. The 2008 is 94.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4.5% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023. Review Date: December 2011