2008 Plumpjack Cabernet Sauvignon Estate McWilliam's Vineyard
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(14.8% alcohol; from the McWilliams Oakville Vineyard): Deep, medium ruby-red. Cassis, spices, plum and dark chocolate on the nose. Creamy, concentrated flavors of dark berries, redcurrant, plum and tobacco convey an impression of full ripeness but could use a bit more definition and lift. This undeniably rich, layered Cabernet will rely more on its big, dusty, tongue-coating tannins than on its soft acidity for continued life in bottle. But will its fruit dry out as its tannins soften?
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Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
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From the Oakville estate of Plumpjack (the former Villa Mt. Eden Vineyard made famous by Nils Venge, whom I believe is still a consultant), the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate has a gorgeous nose of creme de cassis, licorice, and graphite. Flawlessly put together, with delicate tannins, full body, but elegance combined with power, this impressively pure, layered, multi-dimensional Cabernet Sauvignon is already drinkable. It need another 5-7 years to gain complexity, but this is a superb 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon to be drunk now or cellared for two decades. Tel. (707) 945-1220; Fax (707) 944-0744