1996 Laurel Glen Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma Mountain

Deep ruby. Sappy, superripe aromas of black cherry, cassis, licorice and mint; shows an almost medicinal austerity. Thick and ripe but quite closed, even musclebound, today, and dominated by its rather tough spine. A more classic Laurel Glen vintage, with a very firm Bordeaux-like structure. Finishes with tougher tannins and late notes of bitter cherry and espresso. Likely to be long-lived.

Author: Stephen Tanzer

Issue: May/June 1999

Tight and intense, with a firm, concentrated band of currant, anise, cedar, tar and spice notes. Needs time to soften and evolve. Best from 2002 through 2010. 1,546 cases made. -JL

Author: James Laube