1986 Johnson Turnbull Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Selection 67

The 1986 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Selection 67's murky, dark ruby color displays little evidence of its age. The spicy, minty, currant aromatics recall some of the Cabernet Sauvignons from Heitz's Martha's Vineyard. The wine has a youthful feel on the palate, with crisp, tart, high acids intruding to the detriment of the wine's balance and flavor profile. Although medium to full-bodied and youthful, the acidity once again exaggerates the structural components, creating a lack of equilibrium. Anyone who suggests this wine will develop a mid-palate, aromatic complexity, and richness does not have the drinker's best interests in mind. Look for this Cabernet to keep for another 10-12 years. The tasting notes for this section are from two single blind tastings, one conducted in May, 1996, in California, and the other in June, 1996, in Baltimore.