A blockbuster effort is the 2006 Winston Hill Proprietary Red (a 1,000-case blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc). Its deep purple color is followed by extraordinary, complex aromatics of sweet blueberries, chocolate, brown sugar, balsamic, flowers, and black tea. The wine hits the palate with stunning richness, layers of fruit, sweet tannin, and beautifully integrated wood, acidity, and alcohol. Readers should be keeping an eye out for this first-growth quality Napa red. It should evolve over two decades.
I was impressed with the offerings from this winery off Larkmead Lane near Calistoga.
Tel. (707) 942-0753