2005 Corte Riva - Cabernet Sauvignon Napa County/Sonoma Country
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Tasting notes
Good ruby-red. Enticing aromas of black fruits, mocha, smoke and tobacco. Juicy and minerally, with flavors of redcurrant, tobacco and mocha complicated by white pepper and game. Like the 2005 merlot, this is suave and distinctly mineral in character. Finishes with firm tannins and excellent length.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (also a Napa and Sonoma blend) boasts a deep ruby/purple hue along with aromas of tobacco leaf, creosote, creme de cassis, black tea, incense, and new oak. Muscular, fleshy, full-bodied, and dense with sweet tannin and a long finish, it is accessible, but promises to be even better with 3-4 years of bottle age, and last for two decades. Pride Mountain Vineyard’s well-known viticulturist, Romel Rivera, produces impressive wines under his own label, Corte Riva. Working closely with winemaker Bob Foley has been to his benefit, and Foley’s winemaking philosophy is apparent in these brilliant reds. Previously recommended: 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon (89+), 2004 Merlot (91), 2004 Petite Sirah (94). Tel. (707) 573-1801; Fax (707) 573-8800