1997, 2008, 2010 Anderson's Conn Valley "Estate Reserve" Cabernet Sauvignon & "Éloge" Napa Valley Bordeaux Blend Tasting Lot

“Perfumed nose melds cherry, redcurrant, bitter chocolate and tobacco. At once fleshy and penetrating, with superb depth of flavor and excellent delineation. Finishes with big, ripe, mouthcoating tannins and excellent length. (ST)” (05/2001)

“The 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is outstanding. This full-bodied effort exhibits a deep plum/purple color, high tannin, and gorgeously rich, concentrated, floral, and black currant fruit flavors intermixed with mineral, wood smoke, and spice box. It is what the French would call a serious vin de garde. Give it 4-5 years of cellaring; it should keep for 30 years, as these wines are built to last. (RP)” (12/2000)

“Remarkably, the 2008 Eloge may be as compelling. Composed of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot, it exhibits a dense opaque purple color followed by aromas of espresso roast, cassis, blueberries, licorice and lead pencil shavings. Deep, full and layered with phenomenal concentration and purity, this wine satisfies both the hedonistic and intellectual senses. (RP)” (12/2010)

“The 2008 Eloge is a deep, plush wine. Dark plums, black cherries, new leather and licorice are some of the notes that jump from the glass in this forward, succulent wine. Layers of fruit build effortlessly to the plush, round finish. In 2008 the blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 10% Merlot. (AG) 90+” (12/2011)

“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve is fabulous. It is also the best of the 2010s at the estate. A rich, powerful Cabernet, the 2010 captures the essence of the vintage. Dark cherry, plum, smoke, spices and tobacco all take shape in the glass. Today, the 2010 is firing on all cylinders. A huge, explosive finish rounds things out in style. (AG)” (11/2013)

“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve is a structured, tannic Cabernet built to last. Discrete notes of damp earth, black cherries and black currants are followed by a juicy attack and a medium-bodied, elegant, Bordeaux-like textural and flavor profile. Not a blockbuster, it is an elegant, finesse-styled effort... (RP)” (10/2013)