2009 Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard

Saturated red-ruby. Licorice, black cherry, red- and blackcurrant, sexy soil tones and violet on the nose; conveys a strong impression of site character. Densely packed, full and youthful, conveying strong inner-mouth lift but still a bit monolithic and in need of patience. The wine's inky dark fruit, spice and graphite flavors are firm but not at all hard or spiky. Made from vines picked on the late side, this big boy may not be as graceful as the 2010 but its firm tannic structure should ensure a long, slow evolution. And this classically dry Cabernet boasts excellent definition and inner-mouth tension. Give this wine some time in a decanter if you plan to open a bottle anytime soon. 15.2% alcohol; 3.73 pH; 5.8 g/l acidity)

Inky purple. The heady, impressively nuanced nose projects black and blue fruits, incense, vanilla and mocha, lifted by a note of candied rose. Wonderfully lush and sweet on entry, then spicy and energetic in the mid-palate, showing compelling depth and concentration to its blackberry, cassis and floral pastille flavors. Finishes smooth and very long, with lingering spicy sweetness and gentle, harmonious tannins. (JR)