2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Ark Vineyard

(15.5% alcohol): Saturated dark red. Almost port-like ripeness to the aromas of currant, tobacco, plum jam, mocha and spices, plus a hint of caramelized steak; more red than black in its fruit character. Like liquid silk in the mouth, conveying an almost exotic liqueur-like sweetness plus a truffley hint to the flavors of dried berries, toffee and spices. Amazingly rich yet with good mineral lift to buffer its sweetness. A wonderfully smooth wine with a broad, long finish featuring substantial dusty tannins that saturate the front teeth.

The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Ark Vineyard, from a vineyard at the base of Howell Mountain, is deep, sensual and powerful. It shows terrific richness in its dark cherries, plums, mocha, licorice and tobacco. This is a totally gorgeous wine loaded with character.

(15.5% alcohol): Bright red-ruby. Sexy aromas of raspberry, redcurrant, mocha, toffee, spices, smoke and minerals. Plush on entry, then thick in the middle but with surprising acidity framing and lifting the smooth red fruit and toffee flavors. Boasts compelling breadth and palate presence. Wonderfully fine-grained, extract-rich cabernet with an unflagging finish. Like a liquid confection but with plenty of supporting structure for long aging.