2008 Colgin Cellars, IX Estate Red, Napa Valley, Bottle (750ml)

JS99 "Incredible nose of mint, spices and dark fruits. Forest floor. Then turns to Indian tea. Roses too. Full-bodied, with very fine tannins and lovely fruit. Soft and silky fruits. Amazing backbone of tannins. This reminds me of a great modern vintage of Margaux -- but with that Napa shine. 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot." JS Jun 2011

WE99 "This is an absolutely beautiful wine to drink now, but the richness comes at the price of considerable alcohol. The color is dark and impenetrable, the aromas huge in Cabernet-inspired blackberries and black currants, with a touch of something herbal and also a stony minerality. There’s also a fascinating peatiness, like an Islay Scotch. It really opens up in the glass, becoming ever more complex. It’s great Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, but that high alcohol may limit its ageability." Oct 2012