2007 Far Niente Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

“The finest Cabernet Sauvignon I have ever tasted from Far Niente may be the 2007 Estate. Its dense purple color is accompanied by fragrant aromatics of creme de cassis, spice box, underbrush, and forest floor. Voluptuously-textured and full-bodied with superb purity and depth as well as a layered, complete finish, this terrific wine should be drinkable before the 2006, but age just as long 20-25+ years. (RP)” (12/2009)

“The long, cool 2007 growing season produced exceptional cabernet fruit at Far Niente's Martin Stelling Vineyard, a 100-acre site rising up into the Mayacamas hills above Oakville. It has the freshness and brightness of the best 2007s, and seems to do everything right, like the star quarterback in high school who happens to be handsome and gets straight A's. No, it's not complex, but it may get there in time. For now, it's all red plum flavor, spicy, lively and sleek. The balance makes it approachable with roast rack of lamb, and will hold it for long-term aging.” (08/2010)

“This is one of the most tannic Cabs Far Niente has produced in quite a while. It's really not drinkable now, despite very complex flavors of blackberries, cherries, licorice, tobacco and plums, along with plenty of smoky new oak. Made with a few drops of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, which add perfume and flowers, it's a wine that won't come into its own for quite a while. Hold until 2013, at least, and it should provide interesting drinking for years after, in a proper cellar. *Top 100 Cellar Selections of 2010*” (06/2010)

“Beautiful aromas of currants, mint, and spices follow through to a full body, with soft and silky tannins and a medium finish. A little tart on the finish, but fresh and interesting. Very approachable now.” (02/2011)

“Sophisticated and polished, with savoury cedar and oak aromas. Intense black fruit and oak spice are offset by crisp acidity. Powerful, yet keenly balanced. Generous and long. (LM) 18/20 Points.” (02/2011)