Pillar Rock has been much maligned by the online community for their rather steep pricing and grandiose claims on their mailers while the wines have tended to underwhelm especially for the price. Fair or not, they have become a poster boy for what many consider the problem with many new Napa Cabs: proclaiming themselves a "cult" before they have the followers.

I am pleased to say that I have just enjoyed a bottle of Pillar Rock that was quite good.

After about 30 minutes, in the decanter, the 2000 Pillar Rock blew off an initial hot nose to reveal pleasant spicy cherry and berry aromas. The flavors were multidimensional with layers of dark fruit, pine, spice, and touches of soy. There was a gripping acidity that seems to serve it well, and a long, nice finish. Much better than the last 2000 Pillar Rock that I opened about 16 months ago. The wine did tend to die after several hours in the decanter indicating that it doesn't need long aeration or much more cellar time.

This was one of the better showings of a 2000 Napa Cabernet that I have experienced. I know that Pillar Rock has the team in place to produce great wines and hope this is a sign of good things to come. Public image and pricing will continue to be a barrier for them. Do I recommend the 2000 Pillar Rock? Yes, if you already own some, open up and enjoy. But I think they need to continue maturing their vineyards and producing great wines if they want to some day justify the steep price of entry for their wines.