A question that comes up on occasion is whether a $125 bottle can be considered a value. In this case, I say yes. A Napa Cab of this quality often costs 4 times the price and rarely less. The Bard is consistent from vintage to vintage and a truly great wine. This is a blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot and the remaining grapes are Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Inky purple in color. The nose has cassis, black cherries, tobacco, damp forest floor and slight graphite. On the palate, this is already complex though it will undoubtedly improve for fifteen or twenty years. Just a fantastic lush texture that makes it a pleasure to drink even so young. Tons of cassis, black cherry fruit layered with forest floor and earthy notes. Great balance. Long finish. This needs hearty foods at the moments as there are strong tannins. Or if tannins don't bother you, then on its own.
