Is there a more iconic wine made anywhere? Arguably no and certainly not in the USA. This is the wine that defines "Cult Wine". The release price has closed in on $1,000 per bottle and the aftermarket is double for starters. So, it is nice to actually open a bottle and see what the fuss is all about. The first question is whether it is worth it. That answer all depends on so much more than wine. One pays for the rarity. One pays for the status. One pays for the experience. Still, at the end of the day, how is the wine. As Napa Cabs go, this is not a huge wine. It is more about elegance and style. It is not a fruit bomb or an oak bomb at all. This bottle was wonderful. It took about 30 minutes to really open up in the glass. While still young, it drinks beautifully. Deep purple in color. The nose has cassis, black cherries, slight chocolate, some graphite and just a hint of tobacco. On the palate, this is deep and complex. It coats the mouth with red and purple fruits. Medium tannins. An incredibly long finish. It is also delicious. Wonderful drinking it on its own to really savor the experience but it did go well with some stuffed mushroom caps. As for the experience, it is wonderful to be lucky enough to drink such a wine. This is such a unique wine and drinking it is even more so unique.
