The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS, which is from Clones 4 and 337, and a blend from not only the To-Kalon Vineyard but also one of the other Beckstoffer vineyards, River Slope in St. Helena, has a dense ruby/purple color, a beautiful nose of creme de cassis, scorched earth, flowers, white chocolate, and espresso, and loads of fruit. The wine has phenomenal intensity and actually has a texture and complexity more like that of a top Pomerol (which is largely Merlot and Cabernet Franc, rather than Cabernet Sauvignon). Nevertheless, this is a beauty that can be drunk now or aged 15 or more years. It is aged 20 months in 100% new Darnajou barrels.

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Reveals its depth and complexity in spades, with an initial push of ripe currant, black cherry, blackberry and mocha-laced oak. Intense and concentrated, yet sleek and vibrant, with a tremendous aftertaste that's tight, focused and refined. 175 cases made.

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A very good, but not really exceptional high-end Napa cab. I love the big (and expensive) plush Napa style, and this is a good example. Grape and red fruit notes, but a bit of a burn on the finish. This was my first bottle of Schrader (this stuff is tough to find and expensive!) and I liked it a lot, but I think part of it's mystique might be due to its rarity. I think Caymus is making wines that are just as good and a lot easier to find.