2011 Colgin Cellars, Cariad, Napa Valley, Case of 6 btls

JS97 "Extremely aromatic with lead pencil and hints of currant undertone. Full body, with silky tannins and a very, very long finish. The texture is just right. This is so racy and refined with fabulous texture. I love the savory character. A wine with a solid core of fruit and super silky tannins. It is beautiful and dense yet refined. 49% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, 10% petit verdot and 6% cabernet franc." JS Oct 2014

AG96 "The 2011 Cariad is a dark, brooding beauty. A whole range of savory and earthy nuances play off a dark cherry and plum fruit. The 2011 is distinguished by its surprising breadth and volume. The strong savory qualities of the year are present in a wine that impresses with its balance and poise. It is a terrific example of the year." AG for VM May 2022

Robert Parker writes, "There are a lot of magnificent estates with Shangri-La-like beauty spread throughout California, and the Colgin property is in the top ten list for spectacular views as well as top quality. Sitting atop Pritchard Hill with stunning views of Lake Hennessey and the surrounding mountains, their IX Estate Vineyard is on a steep, intimidating hillside. It is one of the must-see attractions in Northern California, if not the entire state. The longstanding winemaking team of Ann Colgin, Allison Tauziet and Bordeaux consultant Dr. Alain Raynaud has produced some magnificent wines over the years (the 2001s, 2002s, 2005s, 2007s and 2008s) as well as amazing efforts in 2009, 2010 and 2012. There are three Bordeaux blend offerings, one from their Tychson Hill estate vineyard off Highway 29, north of St. Helena, and the second, the IX Estate blend. The Cariad is fashioned from a blend of grapes purchased from a number of David Abreu-s well-known and highly respected vineyards. There is also a fourth wine, the IX Estate Syrah, which is often a dead-ringer for a great Northern Rhone." Published: Oct 30, 2013