2004 Rudd Oakville Estate Red
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Tasting notes
A sensational proprietary red wine blend from Leslie Rudd, this 2004 is composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 8% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc from a top-notch vineyard on the Oakville Crossroads sandwiched between Screaming Eagle and Plumpjack. Flawlessly assembled with not a hard edge to be found, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color, copious notes of graphite and black fruits, sweet tannin, a voluptuous, opulent texture, and terrific purity as well as freshness. This gorgeous, multi-dimensional, full-bodied 2004 is drinkable now, yet has the stuffing and length to last for 15-20 more years. Tel. (707) 948-2667
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Heady black fruit and spice aromas lead to an opulent, cassis-dominated palate with liquorice, bay leaf and graphite notes. Very rich and concentrated, with oak very much in the background. 83 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon. (LM) $135
(83% cabernet sauvignon, 8% each petit verdot and merlot, and 1% cabernet franc) Full ruby-red. Much more aromatic nose than the Crossroads bottling: cassis, cedar, graphite, minerals and sexy oak, all lifted by a violety high note. Quite ripe, supple and sweet but fresher and more classic than the Crossroads, with enticing flavors of black fruits, minerals, violet, dark chocolate and licorice. Finishes with substantial but sweet tannins that are downright lush for 2005. A lovely example of this vintage.
Good medium ruby. Very ripe aromas of black fruits, minerals and graphite. Lush on entry, then surprisingly tight in the middle and a bit tough to taste owing to the recent racking. A bit less chocolatey than the 2003 but possesses greater density of material. Youthfully medicinal and backward but fully ripe. Offers excellent potential.