($125; 100% cabernet sauvignon, one-third each from Howell Mountain, Calistoga and Scarecrow in Rutherford) Good full ruby. Blackcurrant, cocoa powder, violet, graphite and licorice on the medicinal nose and palate; smells like a top Pauillac. Very firmly built, even youthfully tough, with terrific vibrancy and captivating soil complexity. Finishes with substantial chewy tannins that will require extended bottle aging. Seriously dense cabernet for the cellar.

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The 2006 J. Daniel Cuvee is living up to my laudatory notes from last year. Black currant, crushed rock, licorice, asphalt, graphite, and chocolate characteristics are present in this full-bodied effort. With excellent purity, depth, and delineation, it should drink beautifully for 20+ years.

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This intense red pushes ripeness to the edge of cherry and plum jam, providing plenty of flavor and complexity. Full-bodied and balanced, with a long, supple finish and fine-grained tannins.

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