Mainly Merlot, this Bordeaux blend is enormously rich in sweet cassis, cherry and cedar. It’s assertive in that way, yet possesses an elegant architecture composed of rich, dusty tannins and crisp acids. Should hold well for at least five years.——S.H.(11/1/2005)—— 91

A really wonderful wine. It seems classic Dry Creek Valley, in terms of bright, spicy fruit, as polished as marble on the surface, with maybe less stuffing than, say, Napa. But that’s not to put it down. Racy tannins and dry acids make it competitive in a worldwide market. ——S.H.(6/1/2002)—— 92