2008 St Eden Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2008 St. Eden is one of the better 2008s in the Bond range. Powerful and ample on the palate, the 2008 also shows more breadth than some of the other wines in the lineup. Black cherry, grilled herbs, tobacco, scorched earth and licorice all develop in the glass. Firm tannins suggest the 2008 will drink well for another decade plus. Although not especially refined, the 2008 does offer plenty of depth and virile intensity.

Bright ruby-red. Aromas of blackberry, licorice and crushed rock accented by black pepper. Boasts a refined texture but not the depth of the best vintages, showing an herbal element to the flavors of kirsch and licorice. This pure but rather unforthcoming wine still needs a few more years to digest its dusty tannins.

The 2008 St. Eden is one of the richest, fleshiest and best-balanced of the 2008s in the Bond portfolio. Dark red fruit, flowers, minerals and spices are some of the notes that take shape in the glass. The 2008 has the mid-palate pliancy that is less evident in some of the other 2008s here. There is plenty of focus as well, especially on the long, saline finish. Tar, smoke and licorice add the final notes of complexity.