2006 & 2016 Baldacci "Black Label" & Hanzell — Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting Lot

“Massive. Made from 100% Cabernet, and lavish in new French oak, it's an impressive wine, but not one you want to open now. Everything is on steroids, with a heart of blackberries and currants just waiting to emerge.” (02/2010)

“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, 11% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot. Medium to deep ruby-purple, it opens with blackcurrant bud, potting soil and menthol over crème de cassis, violet, pencil lead and iron with a touch of dried thyme and a savory undercurrent. The palate is medium-bodied and elegant with intense mineral-driven fruit layers, fine, grainy tannins and juicy acidity, finishing long and layered. An elegant, restrained example. 287 cases produced. (EB)” (12/2019)

“Cedary nuances with iodine, dried leaves and dark berries packed in deep here. The palate has a vibrant core of mulberries and cherries with darker black-fruit notes. Sleek, polished tannins. Medium to full body. A blend of 75% cabernet sauvignon, 12% cabernet franc, 11% malbec and 2% petit verdot. Drink or hold.” (09/2019)

“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon offers plenty of near- and medium-term appeal. The significant presence of both Cabernet Franc and Malbec in the blend gives the 2016 brilliant aromatic top notes and a distinctly red-fruit-leaning profile. Although approachable today, it has quite a bit of underlying tannic grip that should allow it to age gracefully for a number of years. (AG)” (05/2019)

“This is the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay producer's second inaugural release of Cabernet Sauvignon, having made the variety from 1979 to 1992 before grafting over the Cab vines to Pinot Noir. In 2012 Hanzell replanted two acres of Pinot back to Cabernet and here's the welcome result. Blended with 12% Cabernet Franc, 11% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot, it offers a sweet cassis bouquet and substantial structure lined in flavors of red fruit, pencil shavings and tobacco. (VB)” (06/2019)