Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

A candidate for one of the wines of the vintage, this stunning 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford includes in its blend some of the oldest Cabernet vines in existence in Napa Valley. It tips the scales at a lofty 15.4% alcohol, but believe it or not, it is strikingly elegant and pure, with laser-like precision. Inky, dark ruby/purple, with a stunning nose of forest floor, creme de cassis and a subtle, earthy minerality, the wine is built like a skyscraper, with a multidimensional mouthfeel and incredible complexity and richness, yet it never comes close to tasting heavy or overwrought. This is just a great terroir, great winemaking, and the results are profound. It seems to be drinkable now, but is capable of at least another 10-20 years of full-throttle pleasure. This is a superstar and a remarkable effort. Bravo! (RP)

(06/2015)

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Good deep ruby. Pungent aromas of liqueur-like cassis and blackberry, violet, bitter chocolate and camphor; a real essence of Cabernet Sauvignon. Juicy, pure and penetrating, with a mouthwatering quality to the crushed berry, violet and bitter chocolate flavors thanks to lively acidity and firm underlying minerality. This extremely young wine really coats the mouth with flavor. Began quite closed but showed increasing density and sweetness as it opened in the glass. The finish features superb palate-saturating tannins and an uncanny vibrating quality. A wonderfully aromatic wine that should improve in bottle for many years. (ST) 95+

(06/2008)

Wine Spectator

Aging gracefully, this is very rich, complex and expansive, with broad layers of blackberry, currant, loamy earth and licorice. Ends with dense, chewy tannins and a clean finish. Close to its peak, but maintains the extract and concentration to go for another decade. (JL, Web-2015)