Saturated deep ruby. Brooding, backward nose hints at deep black plum, cassis, graphite and nutty, spicy oak. Fat, sweet and superconcentrated, with an almost citric suggestion of acidity and chewy dry extract contributing to the impression of structure. Wonderfully bright for such a ripe wine, and explosively long on the aftertaste. Along with its considerably power, this promises to deliver great class in an almost Medoc-like way.

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The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 3% Merlot. The principal component comes from the Champoux Vineyard (in which the winery is a partner) with contributions from the Klipsun and Taptiel Vineyards, outstanding in their own right. It, too, was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque purple-colored, it has a splendid perfume of violets, wood smoke, truffle, Asian spices, black cherry, and black currant preserves. Opulent and mouth-coating, the layers of complex flavors nearly hide enough tannin to support 8-10 years of additional cellaring. The oak, tannin, and acidity are beautifully integrated and the lengthy finish lasts for well over a minute. Purchasers no doubt will want to try a bottle immediately but this towering effort will not reach its peak until 2015 at the earliest and provide pleasure through 2040. I say this with confidence because a 1983 Quilceda Creek Cabernet tasted in May 2008 is at its peak now and should carry on for another 10-15 years.

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Richly aromatic, this brims with dark berry and currant aromas and flavors, shaded with espresso and dark chocolate overtones that play against somewhat gritty tannins. A meaty note adds extra depth as the finish lingers on and on against the tannins. 3,400 cases made.

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vanilla, meaty, cinnamon and black pepper finish, blackberryFull bodied. Silky texture. Medium finish.