1998 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Oakville
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Tasting notes
The 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve spent 22 months in wood, of which 50% was new French. Now think about this ... the price will be $145 for the screw cap, but only $135 for the cork-finished wine. The 1998 displays great texture, and a sweet and expansive mid-palate, in addition to a fat, ripe finish. I don't really know how they pulled this off in 1998, but certainly some of the very best 1998 Cabernet Sauvignons have emerged from the Oakville corridor. The wine is full-bodied and beautifully scented, with aromas of cassis, plums, cherries, minerals, and smoke. Surprisingly full-bodied, with a plush texture in addition to layers of fruit and richness, it is a brilliant 1998 that can be drunk upon release or cellared for 15-16 years. (Release date 9/01) Tel. (707) 944-1465; fax (707) 944-0744
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(perhaps the first $100+ wine bottled with a screwtop, to make the point that this is a more reliable seal for a premium wine than a cork) Saturated medium ruby. Slightly musty aromas . . just kidding! Deeply spicy, highly aromatic nose of cassis, black cherry, licorice, flowers, mocha and brown spices; hints at a liqueur-like ripeness rare for the year. Intensely flavored, high-pitched and tightly wound, with black fruit and spice flavors enlivened by brisk acidity. This has very good flavor development for the vintage. Firm, chewy tannins reach the front teeth but avoid dryness.