2008 Vineyard 29 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

(14.8% alcohol): Saturated dark ruby. Inky, medicinal aromas of black raspberry, dark plum and black pepper. Penetrating and intense but rather unyielding, showing a slightly raw peppery edge to its rather clenched dark fruit and savory spice flavors. Shows good underlying minerality but I wanted more pliancy of texture. Finishes with substantial tongue-dusting tannins that call for patience. This will merit a higher score if it unclenches.

Saturated dark ruby. Inky, medicinal aromas of black raspberry, dark plum and black pepper. Penetrating and intense but rather unyielding, showing a slightly raw peppery edge to its rather clenched dark fruit and savory spice flavors. Shows good underlying minerality but I wanted more pliancy of texture. Finishes with substantial tongue-dusting tannins that call for patience. This will merit a higher score if it unclenches. (ST) 90+

The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard 29 Estate (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) has to take a backseat to the virtually perfect 2007, but it is another strong effort. Although slightly more austere than the exuberant 2007, it is loaded with fruit. An opaque ruby/purple hue is accompanied by notes of cassis, new saddle leather, camphor and loamy soil. The wine displays sweet tannin, medium to full-bodied flavors, outstanding richness and mild tannins in the finish. It requires 2-3 years of bottle age and should keep for 20-25 years. Proprietors Chuck and Ann McMinn have added another wine to their portfolio of Cru wines. The Cru offerings, which are made from purchased fruit, are meant to be stylish Napa Valley wines that sell for reasonable prices. Presumably, they are aimed at both consumers and restaurants looking for a very good Napa wine that won’t break the bank. Tel. (707) 963-9292; Fax (707) 963-7848