Originally rated 95+, this dense opaque purple-colored blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot exhibits notes of chocolate fudge, mocha, black cherry, blackberry, licorice, smoke and toasty oak. Dense, full-bodied and chewy, it has not yet begun to reveal the nuances and complexity of other Cariad vintages. While it is a big, rich effort, I think it will develop along the lines of the 2000 and 2003, rather than reach the super qualitative level such as 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2007.

Aromas of ripe blueberry, strawberry and red currant are engagingly complex and supple in this Cabernet blend, which is full-bodied, graceful and elegant, ending with a long seamless finish that picks up a touch of gravel and tobacco leaf. 54 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2022. 470 cases made. -JL