One of the most complex Bordeaux blends to emerge from California over recent years is Conn Valley’s Eloge, which is meant to represent a California-styled St.-Emilion. The 2001 Eloge is a brilliant offering. A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, it boasts a dense purple color as well as an extraordinary nose of menthol, blackberries, cassis, cedarwood, and spice box. This layered, voluptuously-textured, medium to full-bodied, impressively rich 2001 reveals silky tannin in addition to a long, heady finish. While it is impossible to resist, it will age beautifully for 12-15 more years. Tel. (707) 963-8600; Fax (707) 963-7818