The 2002 The Puzzle possesses a saturated ruby/purple hue as well as a primary, tight, but evocative bouquet of creme de cassis, earth, and a hint of new oak. This tannic, full-bodied, structured 2002 requires another 2-4 years of bottle age. Easily the equivalent of a top-notch second or third-growth Bordeaux, it should evolve for 15-20 years. (Release date Fall 2006)Tel. (707) 963-9000; Fax (707) 944-1123

Deliciously complex, and made solidly in the soft, ripe modern style. It’s the kind of Bordeaux blend that immediately dazzles, with its wealth of cherries, blackberries, tobacco, carob and peppery spice. Seems too soft for aging, so drink now.——S.H.(7/1/2007)—— 90