2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block
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Tasting notes
(14.8% alcohol): Bright, dark red. Musky redcurrant, licorice, mocha, coffee and pepper on the nose, complicated by spices and dried herbs. Can't match the mid-palate sweetness of the merlot-dominated Hossfeld Coliseum red blend but still offers good texture for the vintage. The redcurrant and plum flavors are complicated by coffee grounds and herbs. Finishes firm, with a touch of greenness.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block is a juicy, black fruit-scented and flavored wine with supple tannin, a velvety texture and lots of seductive early appeal. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. For a number of years, this has been one of most impressive portfolios in Napa Valley, and as one might expect, the 2010s are outrageous offerings. Tel. (707) 445-0311
(80% merlot and 20% cabernet sauvignon): Bright full ruby. Slightly jammy dark berry aromas complicated by pepper, olive oil and oak; a bit zinfandel-like. A sweet, medium-bodied fruit bomb in the mouth, with dark berry flavors nicely accented by licorice, herbs and pepper. Juicy and still a bit youthfully imploded; long and energetic on the aftertaste.