This Reserve requires the faith of a true believer in its future. It’s awkward now, a tannic, very new-oaky wine with jammy black currant flavors, and seems all over the place. We know from long experience that CDV Cabs age terrifically, and this one might. Best after 2012, and could improve a great deal. ——S.H.(12/15/2008)—— 89

All the parts aren’t even close to coming together yet on this immature Cabernet. You have strong, dusty tannins, prickly acids, lots of toasty new French oak, and fine cherry and blackberry fruit. All they need is six to 12 years to figure out how to get along with each other. When they do, the wine should be a beauty.——S.H.(12/15/2006)—— 92

With just 13.5% alcohol, this Cab marches to its own beat. In an era of gooey, late-picked wines, this one’s dry, tight and tannic, obviously designed for the cellar. Clos du Val always has celebrated their Cab’s ageworthiness, and such are the wine’s fruity cherry flavors that it should do interesting things after 2008 and beyond. ——S.H.(12/15/2005)—— 90