The winery’s reserve Cab has been variable over the years, but this ’02 is really a very good wine that will reward cellaring. It’s luscious now, but such are the tannins, the dry balance, and the freshness of the blackberry flavors, that time in the bottle is bound to reward. Should open by the end of 2007, and drink well for the next five years. ——S.H.(5/1/2007)—— 91

Considerably more Cabernet-oriented than Rod Strong’s 2000 Meritage, this wine shows pronounced cassis and black currant flavors, as well as some pretty powerful tannins. It’s also very oaky. Seems best to let it mellow for a good five years. ——S.H.(10/1/2005)—— 90

If you compare this winery’s reserve bottling with its Alden release, the latter, despite its tannins, is more drinkable. This reserve is very closed, with strong, numbing tannins. The flavors are minty and you have to search for any fruit. It’s interesting, but aging this wine is a big gamble.——S.H.(11/15/2003)—— 86

——(9/1/2000)—— 92