The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford has additional thickness and uncuosity that I didn’t see in the Stags Leap or introductory Napa offering. Loads of black fruits, great acid, and underlying minerality as well as red currants, black currants, and blackberry and a hint of raspberry are all present in this complex, fresh, lively, stylish Cabernet Sauvignon that combines power with elegance. Some tannins are still to be resolved, but the density of fruit and concentration are more than adequate to balance them out. This wine could use 2-3 years in the cellar and will last two decades. Barrel samples of the 2009 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009 Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon and 2009 Fortis Cabernet Sauvignon all showed forward fruit, deep color, charming tannins, and perhaps less weight than the 2008s or 2007s, but lots of style and elegance. They will be drinkable early on and I am sure will put on additional weight during their upbringing in barrel.Tel. (800) 575-9777; Fax (707) 253-1493

Rich and layered, true to Rutherford, with loamy earth, dried herb, currant and dark berry fruit that's slow to unfold, but does so gracefully, with glimpses of anise, tobacco and mineral. Ends with dry, gripping tannins. Best from 2012 through 2021. 399 cases made.??–JL??Region: California / Napa / Rutherford Select to Add