[1 bottle of 2001, 1 bottle of 2005]At checkout, comment on vintage preferenceA nose of black raspberries interwoven with floral notes of blackcurrants and spice jump from the glass of this dense ruby/plum/purple wine. This famous vineyard at the northern end of Napa Valley, which in this era was owned by Bart and Daphne Araujo (today owned by Franois Pinault, the proprietor of Chteau Latour), can certainly make the argument that its one of the first growths of Napa Valley. Sweet, velvety tannin, medium to full body, and extraordinary complexity and elegance characterize this wine, which is seamless and drinking beautifully. While not one of their longest-lived vintages, the balance and purity suggest that, while it may be entering its fully mature stage, it certainly can keep going for another 10-15 years. The finish is easily 40 seconds-plus.96 points from Robert Parker, The Wine AdvocateWinery notes: Reflecting a superb growing season, this wine is immensely aromatic, exhibiting notes of ripe cassis and blackberries layered with hints of leather, dried sage, crushed rock and rose petals. In the mouth, the wine is a seamless expression of elegance and depth, perfectly balancing rich fruit, earthiness, minerality and powerful but fine oak tannins, finishing with incredibly persistent notes of wet granite. Notes winemaker Franoise Peschon: The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine of great purity and strength, with abundant silky tannins enveloping the sweet fruit and mineral core. It is vibrant, authentic and intense - less fruit driven, more earth driven, it is a sophisticated wine of place.
