Tasting Notes:

“The color is a vibrant pomegranate hued, deep garnet. The nose reveals a panoply of aromas, blueberry liquor, dark red fruits, black cherry, with subtle notes of baking spices and cedar. A small percentage of beautifully ripe Malbec and Petite Verdot contribute hints of plum and leather respectively. These abundant fruit characteristics, along with a touch of vanilla, reveal them- selves in the mouth with multiple layers of flavor that coat the mouth and continue to a long finish. The tannins are superfine and silky, carrying the fruit along the palate from entry to finish without ever being obtrusive. Both the Malbec and Petite Verdot further enhance the classical texture.”

Winemaker Notes:

“With a rich ruby color, this full-bodied wine opens with aromas of cigar box, Bing cherries, cranberry sauce, saddle leather, and bay leaves. On the palate, we find flavors of Luxardo cherries, Campari, Valrhona chocolate, pomegranates, and apple tartlets, with robust tannins and hints of freshly turned earth and crushed rocks on the long and persistent finish.”

Rating: 92 Points (Robert Parker)

“32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Syrah, 22% Merlot and 16% Malbec. Obviously, Papa Buoncristiani had a very good palate. Dense ruby/purple-hued with more meat, underbrush and barbecue notes than its siblings, it is fleshy and succulent with sweet tannins and a full-bodied mouthfeel. This successful blend can be drunk now and over the next 8-10 years.”

Rating: 91 Points (Cellar Selection)

“A meaty Cab with small percentages of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Sirah, this was given two years in mostly French oak. Pencil shavings and tar dominate on the nose, opening the way for a juiciness on the palate expressing dried herb and cassis. Integrated, the finish is savory and oaky. Enjoy through 2021.”