1994 Colgin Cellars, Herb Lamb, Napa Valley [Soiled Label], Bottle (750ml)

AG97 "The 1996 Colgin Cabernet Sauvignon Herb Lamb Vineyard 3L, a bottle generously brought by one of our guests, is an early wine from the Helen Turley era and one of the greatest Colgin wines I have ever tasted. Deep, inky and richly textured, the 1996 impresses with its energy and expression of both vintage and place. It is truly magnificent." AG for VM Feb 2023

RP96 "What is so remarkable about the 1994 and 1995 offerings is that they are aged in 100% new French oak, yet the wood's influence is extremely subtle. In addition to their power, richness, and fullness, another hallmark of the Colgin wines is the vibrant blueberry, boysenberry, cassis character that roars from the glass. The potentially perfect 1994 Cabernet Sauvignon is a totally dry wine, but the sweetness and taste of this wine's fruit is akin to a savory blend of a chocolate-covered, blueberry/cassis-filled candy bar and vanilla ice cream melting in the mouth. This full-bodied wine is silky, seductive, opulent, voluptuously-textured, and extraordinarily fragrant, expansive, and rich. In spite of this, the wine remains graceful and well-balanced, without any sense of heaviness, or obtrusive tannin or acidity. I clearly underrated the 1994 from my earliest barrel tastings, but the last two times I have had it, from barrel immediately prior to bottling and in bottle, have persuaded me that this wine is one of the most exciting and remarkable young Cabernet Sauvignons I have tasted! It should drink well for another 25-30 years. Damn, I adore this wine!" RP Dec 1996