2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Kayli Morgan Vineyard

(15.5% alcohol): Bright medium red. Subtly complex aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, dusty cocoa powder, toffee and licorice; I often find a Pomerol quality to this wine, despite the fact that it's 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Wonderfully suave and seamless, with a thickness of texture leavened by firm acidity and a hint of herbs. Really lovely class and energy here, in spite of its almost confectionery sweetness. More tightly wound and delineated than the Ark, with darker berry, plum, licorice, toffee and flavors enlivened by minerality and a touch of herbs. This still-youthful wine has loosened up a bit since I last tasted it as part of a spectacular horizontal tasting two years ago and finishes quite harmonious, with serious ripe tannins and integrated acidity. As ripe and thick as this is, there's a soil-driven, savory, claret-like character that's captivating. Offers a lighter touch than the Ark. This held up beautifully in the recorked bottle, showing a liqueur-like, velvety sweetness without ever becoming heavy.

(15.5% alcohol): Bright medium red. Reticent yet already highly complex scents of blueberry, blackberry, wild herbs, licorice, cocoa powder and caraway seed. Hints at a glyceral ripeness but kept quite tight today by terrific acidity and a distinct herbal element. Nicely concentrated, brisk and saline, with a long, juicy finish that avoids greenness but shows a bit of acidity yet to be absorbed.

The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Kayli Morgan Vineyard emerges from the glass with dark plums, black cherries, espresso, mint, licorice and leather. It shows gorgeous balance and harmony in its centered, beautifully articulated personality. All of the elements come together beautifully in this rich, fabulous wine.