2005 Cakebread "Dancing Bear Ranch" Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

Their Howell Mountain cuvée, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Dancing Bear Ranch, is a blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc. A superstar of the vintage, this wine has a nose of graphite scents, blackberry, blackcurrant, spice and underlying earthiness, but with super fruit and full-bodied opulence. Beautifully sweet tannins caress the palate, yet give the impression that even better days might be ahead. This wine has at least another 15 years of longevity, although committing infanticide at age ten is really no crime whatsoever. This is stunning! (RP)

Offers wonderful harmony, finesse and balance, with rich, ripe, supple tiers of spice, currant, black cherry and plummy Cabernet fruit that's pure, focused and long on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. (JL)