It is interesting that in all my tastings of Diamond Creek Cabernets from the seventies and early eighties, I never seemed to have a problem with either bottle variation or disappointing performances. In such vintages as 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, and 1978 the wines are consistently magnificent, and, to my palate, among the greatest California Cabernets I have ever tasted. However, in the eighties and nineties, the wines have performed well below expectations. In contrast to the seemingly troubled1986 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Rock Terrace, the 1986 Cabernet Sauvignon Volcanic Hill exhibits a deeper, darker ruby color, tough tannin, but much more of a mid-palate with sweet fruit, as well as fine glycerin giving it a nicely-textured, ripe, generous feel in the mouth. Although the tannin is high, the wine remains intact, with excellent fruit, medium to full body, and the potential to evolve for another 10-12 years. The tasting notes for this section are from two single blind tastings, one conducted in May, 1996, in California, and the other in June, 1996, in Baltimore.

Mature and past its peak, with a mix of cedary cigar box aromas and dried currant, sage and herb on the palate. Ends with a drying aftertaste.--'76/'86 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now.