($120) Good full, deep red. Sexy oak spices perk up the aromas of black raspberry, minerals, mocha and coffee. Like liquid silk on entry, but with a firm mineral spine and lively acidity keeping the youthful flavors of black raspberry, mocha and chocolate under wraps. Finishes with dusty, broad tannins and compelling sweetness and aromatic persistence. This big, rich blend strikes me as considerably younger than the 2003 was at the same stage.

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The strength of the 2005 vintage at Pride is again noticeable when one compares some of the lower level Cabernet Sauvignons with the 2004 Reserve Claret. While the latter wine (89% from Sonoma and 11% from Napa) is outstanding, it is not as good as the less expensive 2005 Cabernets.

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