This is a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Merlot from Yountville in Napa, California. In a blind tasting of Napa Bordeaux Blends, this did not fare well. That was likely due to its "French" like styling and it stood out from the other wines. That said, even in this "hostile" setting, it did drink very nicely. Inky purple in color, opaque and bright. The is tight at first but after about an hour, it opened to reveal cassis, black cherries, Chinese Five Spice Powder, slight chocolate and tobacco. Full bodied. Medium tannins. Good acidity. On the palate, this is more refined. Subtle nuances with flavors of black cherries, cassis, slight cocoa, and char. Good finish. This is drinking well and seems fully mature at this point. Drink over the next ten years. It is nice on its own but would be better with food. Sauteed Mushrooms with Garlic would be interesting.
