2003 Dalla Valle Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Firm, intense and vibrant, with tight, structured red currant, anise, black cherry and mineral notes. Hints of herb, cedar and sage fold in on the finish, keeping a tight, persistent focus. Finishes with tannins that are wrapped in fruit and mineral notes. (JL)

Bright medium ruby. Bold aromas of blueberry liqueur, black raspberry, menthol, minerals and black olive. Offers concentrated, sweet dark fruit flavors but not quite the lush texture of the 2004. Dominant flavor of raspberry. The lingering finish shows substantial, slightly tough but nicely ripe tannins. This has filled out nicely since I sampled it from barrel a year ago. Incidentally, just prior to my visit Philippe Melka was hired as consulting winemaker here. (ST)