Rather hard in tannins now, a tough young wine that will rise up to something like short ribs. Best to leave it alone for 3 or 4 years. Blackberries, rich and intense, form its heart. ——S.H.(10/1/2005)—— 90

Petit Verdot can rarely stand on its own, but Murphy-Goode has produced a blend of 78.5% Petit Verdot, 13.5% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon that is impressive for its ripeness and overall balance and richness. Attractive notes of black fruits (primarily cassis and berries) are intermixed with toasty new oak in the saturated dark ruby/purple-colored 1997 Petit Verdot Murphy Ranch. The wine is rich, medium to full-bodied, and pure, with attractive spicy oak, low acidity, and sweet tannin. Drink this plush effort over the next 10-12 years. Tel. (707) 431-7644