2005-2007 Corra Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Vertical

“The superb, dense ruby/purple-colored, full-bodied 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (a 220-case lot of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon) reveals elegant notes of spring flowers, lead pencil shavings, blueberries, black currants, and a subtle hint of smoke. Noble sweet tannins are noticeable, and the wine displays a restrained use of oak (100% new French barrels were utilized), beautiful purity, a multi-dimensional texture, and a savory, long, classic finish. It should age effortlessly for 15+ years. (RP)” (12/2008)

“Broad, rich and plush, loaded with layers of dark berry, mocha, spice, olive and cedar. The flavors coat the palate, enlivened by snappy, mineral-laced acidity and plush, deep tannins that impart traction and presence. (JL)” (12/2015)

“Bright medium red-ruby. Musky aromas of black raspberry, mocha, truffle and game, plus an element of roasted herbs. Very smooth and suave on entry, then darker and more youthful in the middle palate than the inviting nose suggests, with rich cassis and black cherry fruit supported by a firm backbone of acids and tannins. This refined, concentrated Cabernet is still a bit brooding and will benefit from a few more years of cellaring. (ST)” (05/2016)

“Wonderful tobacco, spices, and dark fruits on the nose with hints of cedar and lavender. Full bodied and juicy with a beautiful mix of bright and juicy fruit and silky tannins. This is exotic, but reserved. Wonderful fruit in this.” (04/2011)

“Celia Welch is one of the best-known and experienced consultant oenologists in Napa Valley, with Scarecrow and Signorello among her clients, and in 2004 she created her own estate with vineyards in Oakville, Rutherford, and Pritchard Hill. There are spicy black fruits on the nose here, which is both exuberant and lifted, with aromatic precision. The palate remains youthful, even chunky, and the tannins are assertive, yet there is brightness and energy too. There's admirable length, and further ageing should bring out more refinement. (SB)” (09/2019)

“A rich, bold yet graceful style defined by elegance and finesse. Starts with expressive currant, blackberry, mocha and espresso notes and then glides, teetering on spice, dried and floral scents and ending with a harmonious, reverberating finish. Has room to gain. (JL)” (11/2016)

“Still in barrel, the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits the vintage’s more muscular, masculine style along with high tannins as well as plenty of concentration and substance. Still unformed, it needs more time to sort out its big-framed personality. It should turn out to be outstanding, but whether or not it will compete with the gorgeous elegance of the beautiful 2005 remains to be seen. (RP)” (12/2008)

“Bright ruby-red. Blueberry, cassis, bitter chocolate, licorice and menthol on the nose. Supple and lush on the palate, with captivating cassis, mineral and melted chocolate flavors; showed a strong graphite quality with air. This boasts a compellingly creamy texture and finishes with substantial sweet tannins. A very nicely balanced 2006, built to age but already offering considerable appeal. This is consulting winemaker Celia Masyczek's own project, made from vines on Pritchard Hill as well as in Rutherford and Oakville. (ST)” (05/2009)

“Corra’s superb 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon’s opaque blue/purple color is followed by subtle aromas of charcoal, white chocolate, blackberries, black currants, and background oak. Deep and full-bodied with impressive texture and purity, this 2007 is accessible now, but promises to evolve for 20+ years. (RP)” (12/2009)

“Beautiful strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries on the nose. Incredibly floral as well. Full bodied, with loads of fruit and a firm tannin structure. Long finish. This is big, but in reserve.” (02/2011)

“Rich and creamy, impressive for the depth and layers of mocha, currant, blackberry, herb and licorice flavors. Offers an alluring, supple glide on the finish, where the flavors hang. (JL)” (09/2017)

“Expressive aromas of currant, raspberry, smoked meat, mocha, licorice, menthol and roasted herbs. Plump, fine-grained wine with still-fresh cherry and redcurrant fruit lifted by cooler herb and licorice notes. Nicely suave wine with well-managed dusty tannins, repeating herb and menthol notes and a bit of finishing warmth. (ST)” (05/2017)