Franciscan, Napa Valley, Magnificat 2004 This wine exudes sweet ripe fruit in the nose. This profile follows through in the mouth with chalky tannins and lingering acidity. Produced and bottled in Rutherford 14.5% $50 at the winery for the latest vintage ’05 Franciscan
Chimney Rock, Napa Valley, Elevage 2004 The nose features caramel and the sweet notes of a cigar box. In the mouth this wine is absolutely delicious, with elegance, a supple texture and persistence over a long time. P&B in Napa 14.2% $76 at the winery for the latest vintage ’06 Chimney Rock Winery
Conn Creek, Napa Valley, Anthology 2004 The nose is shut down and the mouthfeel quite astringent thus I am afraid we have a low level of TCA interfering with this wine. The grapes are 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 6% Merlot, 5% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot. P&B in St. Helena 14.5% $50 at the winery for the current release ’05 Conn Creek
St. Supery, Napa Valley, Elu 2004 This chewy wine is just a baby, quite structured and packed with flavor. Give it a good 8 years in the cellar before bringing it up for air. P&B in Rutherford 14.3% $56 at the winery St. Supery
Cosentino, Napa Valley, Meritage, The Poet 2004 The nose is marked by oak and cedar. In the mouth the greenishness comes through, not only in flavors but in marked grip flanked by tart acidity. P&B in Yountville 14.4% $75 at the winery for the current vintage ’05