Ray Signorello’s homage to his father is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. Gorgeous blueberry and blackberry aromas jump from the glass of this dark plum/purple-colored 2004 Padrone. Rich and full with supple tannins as well as an expansive, broad, seductive style, this is one of the more evolved and sexy Padrones, with more up-front charm than usual. Consume this full-bodied, velvety textured 2004 now and over the next 10-15+ years.

Dark, spicy oak and cherry. Big, rich, very thick. Spicy redcurrant fruit. Long. Very fine effort - it''s all here.

A Bordeaux blend of mainly Cabernet, with Merlot and Cab Franc, the grapes are from the estate, just outside the Stags Leap District on the Silverado Trail. There’s a luscious power, as the sweet young fruit hits the palate, supported by firm, lush tannins. But the oak, which is 70% new, really takes center stage, especially on the finish. Some time in the bottle could bring everything together.——S.H.(11/1/2007)—— 89