90 Points | Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine

92(+?) Points | International Wine Cellar , May/June 2008

($75) Bright, deep ruby. Red plum, red cherry, licorice and graphite aromas are lifted by an almost Burgundian floral character; very pure and scented. Suave on entry, then sweet and rich in the middle, conveying a sense of brooding power. Finishes with substantial broad, building tannins and a late note of licorice. Winemaker Sean Capiaux says he experimented with extended maceration but this technique resulted in wines that were too tannic. As a rule, total cuvaison time is now just 14 days.

88 Points | Wine Spectator