($80; 15.4% alcohol) Saturated ruby. Very primary aromas of blackberry, cassis, licorice and minerals. Sweet, fat and layered; conveys a very soft, rich palate impression reminiscent of high-grade merlot. Very round wine with exotic brown spice and chocolate flavors. Finishes broad and quite lush, with very fine tannins.

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This is one of the most exciting projects of winemaking consultant Mark Herold. Unfortunately, only 325 cases of the 2003 were produced, and there will probably be even less of the 2004. The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon, which was superb from cask, is even more spectacular from bottle. Its dense, opaque black/purple color is accompanied by scents of graphite interwoven with creme de cassis, charcoal, espresso roast, and spice box. This layered, full-bodied, elegant effort possesses wonderful purity as well as definition. Bottled unfined and unfiltered after 20 months in 100% new French oak, it should drink beautifully for 15 plus years.

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Impressive. Supple and harmonious, with rich, polished currant, herb, mocha and wild berry flavors that are intense and concentrated, offering power with finesse. Shows a dash of heat on the finish, but fans of full-throttle Cabernet won't be disappointed. 325 cases made.

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In the glass, the wine is intense, brooding, and ruby-black in color. The nose is crammed with dark cherry, smoky blue fruits, marzipan, and a little sea salt. Three hours in the decanter and glass barely show this wine's potential. It is bold and intense on the palate with flavors of plum, macerated black cherry, sweet nectarine, and cassis, with blackberry jam on the finish. This wine is well poised for beautiful drinking but will require patience. The concentration is there; the wine is massive.

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