2003 BOND Pluribus

Rich, sumptuous and super-expressive, the 2003 Pluribus has aged impeccably. This is a terrific showing from Pluribus in its first release. Dark cherry, plum, smoke, espresso, licorice, tobacco and menthol all fill out the wine's frame effortlessly. (AG)

The 2003 Pluribus (the debut vintage of this cuvee) performed spectacularly. Created from some of the estate’s youngest vines planted in decomposed white tufa volcanic soils at an elevation of 1,100 to 1,300 feet on Spring Mountain, it offers a stunning blue/purple color, copious quantities of blueberries, black raspberries and violet-infused fruit intermixed with hints of foresty flora. Rich, full-bodied and pure, this beautiful 2003 is several years away from full maturity, but it should keep for two more decades. The single vineyard wines represent Bill Harlan’s concept of offering single vineyard, micro-climate/terroir-based wines from distinctive sectors of Napa Valley. Tel. (707) 944-1441

Bright ruby. Black fruits and minerals on the superripe nose. Then impressively full, fat and sweet, with a loamy element adding complexity to the liqueur-like dark berry fruit. Today this shows the almost confectionery sweetness of a top 2002. Here the tannins are substantial but quite lush and sweet. Very long on the finish.