2002-2003 Kenwood "Artist Series" Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon Vertical

“This polished and very carefully measured working eschews exaggerated ripeness and oak in favor of proportion and clearly defined varietal fruit, and, while it may lack the bluster and drama that is the latter-day norm for high-ticket Cabernet, it wins the nod for precision, balance and grace. It is not excessively tannic, yet it is also not a wine that will want drinking soon, and its combination of depth and slight finishing hardness lead us to think in terms of five to ten years when considering age.” (04/2007)

“This bottling, the 28th Artist Series Cabernet, shows ripe, forward blackberry and cherry fruit elaborated with lots of oak. It’s young and fresh in acids and tannins, and while drinkable now, should benefit from modest aging.” (05/2007)

“Even accepting that Cabernet Sauvignon is a grape that delivers its fair share of tannin, this wine goes a little bit overboard in its late parts, and the ripe, rich aromas and reasonably fruity flavors that come before are more than a little bit occluded at the back. Still, there is fruit at its heart, and, for those willing to wait, the wine may well reward their patience.” (12/2007)

“The ’03 is elegant and sleek, with blackberry and cassis flavors that finish thoroughly dry. But even at 4-plus years, the tannins are very harsh. Could surprise in a decade, but it’s a gamble.” (03/2008)