2002 Newton The Puzzle
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Tasting notes
Only made in the most exceptional vintages, The Puzzle can be 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, but the 2002 The Puzzle is a blend of 35% Cabernet Franc, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and 9% Petit Verdot. Deep and rich, with notes of incense, charcoal, graphite, black cherries and black currants, this full-bodied, layered, multidimensional effort displays terrific fruit, lots of tannin and decent acidity. It is a stunning wine that blends Old World austerity, structure and terroir with the exuberant, ripe, flamboyant fruit of northern California. Give it another 4-5 years of cellaring and drink it over the following two decades. Tel. (707) 963-9000; Fax (707) 963-5408
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Medium red. Aromas of redcurrant and currant leaf; shows a cooked/underripe character. Then sweet and reasonably supple but distinctly green on the palate, with flavors of currant, licorice and herbs. Finishes with dusty tannins that avoid dryness.