When I first tried this wine 4 years ago upon its release, it had very vibrant blackberry notes in the nose and palate along with hints of blackcherry. The tannins were surprisingly smooth for a young wine of this caliber, but the winemaking team there is top notch and have the added benefit of Dave Ramey as a consulting winemaker. Dave is a master at making wines of power and grace that are accessible early in their life, but can also age very well.
At almost 8 years of age the blackberry is still dominant, but the blackcherry has come forward more in both the nose and taste, and possibly a hint of blueberry as well. There are the telltale herbal notes that good Alexander Valley Cabs have, the tannins are still smooth, with a nice balance of fruit and barrel notes on the lingering finish. I believe this bottle had the ability to hold in the cellar for 10 or more years from the vintage date.
Just a delight to savor, and now more of a match for a piece of bacon wrapped beef tenderloin grilled medium, lamb chops from the grill, or herb crusted pork roast done on a rotisserie. Sides of marinated grilled zucchini, portobello mushrooms, or summer squash would be nice as well I think.
This is not an everyday wine, more of a special occasion treat. I thought Father's day was a good reason to enjoy a bottle of it.... (Mothers day next year also qualifies) I hope all of you Dads out there had a great day, and you or your kids made a special day of it.
Available from the Rodney Strong winery for $75.00 per bottle, also at Total wine in Natick MA for $64.00 per bottle, or $58.00 per bottle if you buy 6 or more "pick 6" qualifying wines... ie; 5 more bottles at $8 to $10 each gets you the discount....
Cheers!
Ed
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