2005 Blankiet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Paradise Hills Vineyard

The 2005 Proprietary Red Wine Paradise Hills Vineyard (1,200 cases) reveals a chocolatey espresso roast note with mocha, blackberry and cassis, high tannins, but full body, superb concentration, purity, and an almost Graves-like scorched earth character. This wine needs 3-4 years of bottle age, and should last 25-30 years. They don’t sell it, but for those on the mailing list or visitors, do check out their brilliant 2006 Rose, made by bleeding some of their tanks. It is really one of the best roses I have ever tasted, and it’s a shame one can’t buy it. Previously recommended: 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Paradise Hills (95+), 2003 Merlot Paradise Hills Vineyard (96). (Release date Fall 2008) Tel. (707) 963-2001; Fax (707) 963-2012