From the estate vineyard (planted at a 2,000 foot elevation), the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Rattlesnake Hill exhibits classic aromas of black raspberries, blueberries, and the mountain fruit spectrum, very good acidity, a noticeable wet rock-like minerality, and a powerful core of rich fruit backed up by sweet, ripe, well-integrated tannin. This big wine should age nicely for 15 or more years. This Spring Mountain winery has fashioned their finest wines since the early nineties.Tel. (707) 963-7075; Fax (707) 963-3724

This is a tremendous Cabernet Sauvignon, but be warned, it’s so tannic, it makes your tongue curl. That’s what mountain grapes, grown at 2,000 feet with low yields and small berries, do. Such is the core of black currants, however, that aging is not a problem. With its dryness, intensity and overall balance, it should easily negotiate the next decade. Really displays Napa mountain Cab at its best.——S.H.(6/1/2009)—— 95