2001 Provenance Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford

($35) Bright medium ruby. Redcurrant, pipe tobacco and chocolatey oak on the nose. Thick, layered and reasonably deep, with the currant, mocha and underbrush flavors showing an almost liqueur-like sweetness. Finishes with big, chewy, building tannins and a strong flavor of pipe tobacco.

Author: Stephen Tanzer

Issue: January/February 2004

My score for Provenance's 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon may be generous, but I'll live with it for now. A dark ruby color is followed by a tightly-knit Cabernet revealing a hint of cardboard reminiscent of a cork problem. However, since two bottles both showed this trait, it makes me wonder if some sort of diatomaceous earth filtration system was utilized. This medium-bodied Cabernet possesses some red and black currant fruit, but is austere on the palate, with a dry, lean, attenuated finish. Perhaps more will emerge with aging, but don't count on it. It should survive for 10-15 years.

Author: Robert Parker

The candied cherry and blackberry flavors fall on the simple side and almost remind you of Zinfandel more than Rutherford Cabernet in a great year. Still, it's well-made, balanced and pleasing to drink.

Author: James Laube