($65) Good full ruby-red. Serious, deep aromas of black raspberry, blackcurrant and smoke; more medicinal and less floral than the 2003. Then plump and lush in the mouth, with an early voluptuousness rare for a Forman cabernet. Very rich, pliant wine that's not at all roasted. In fact, this wine's verve suggests it will be even better with several years in the bottle. Finishes with substantial but thoroughly ripe tannins Forman inoculates his cabernet with a yeast generically called "cepage cabernet" (produced by a French company in Chile ), which he describes as "superclean" and able to ferment all the sugars and preserve pure fruit.

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The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon is a big, rich, classic California Cabernet displaying Napa Valley's power and intensity allied to finesse and restraint. A blend of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with 12% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot, and a dollop of Merlot, its deep purple color is accompanied by sweet aromas of violets, creme de cassis, camphor, and hints of melted licorice as well as espresso roast. With supple tannin, an opulent, layered mouthfeel, great fruit, full body, and tremendous balance and purity, it can be drunk young, but promises to keep for 15-18 years.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio