The outstanding 2006 Trilogy (73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot) is a large production cuvee of 6,500 cases. Revealing lots of roasted herb, cedar, black currant, and sweet cherry notes, an endearing, medium to full-bodied texture, exceptional elegance, purity, and length, stunning balance, and ripe tannins (no easy task in a vintage such as 2006), it should drink well for 10-15 years. One of the most impressive portfolios from Flora Springs that I have tasted has emerged from their extensive vineyard holdings. Flora Springs’ single vineyard offerings are all 100% Cabernet Sauvignon with somewhat limited availability production ranges from 370-400 cases of each.Tel. (707) 963-5711; Fax (707) 963-7518

Tough in tannins and dustily dry, this is a hard wine to warm up to. It’s not just the astringency but the absence of fruit. Shows modest flavors of cherries and blackberries, and doesn’t seem like an ager. A disappointment. ——S.H.(12/1/2009)—— 84