This is their regular Napa bottling ($35). I decided to open my second (and last) bottle of this based on the fact that the first bottle seemed less than stellar. Again I was initially disappointed with what wafted out of the glass. The aromas seemed a bit muted but generally overripe. The palate seemed to follow with lush but dumb fruit flavors and not much else. SOmewhat disgusted, because this winery in this vintage should have done much better, I vacu-sealed the remaining 3/4 of the bottle and came back to it the next night. What a change! I guess the wine is going through a "dumb" phase because 24hrs of partial exposure to oxygen had really opened this wine up. No longer was the wine boring but rather it was showing a new nuance with each return to the glass. The toasted oak tones were beginning to show nicely as well as deeper, complex hints of earth and spices. In short, if you've got any of this wine don't give up on it, it just needs some more time. Wish I'd waited a few more years.

Thanks for the TN. I've got about 5 bottles left, and was beginning to wonder whether I should start drinking them.

Think I'll wait a while.

Glad to hear it. I have 3 bottles left and have been debating about opening them. Think I will hold off for awhile longer.

I also just picked up a couple of bottles of the 1999. Guess I'll make a note to try them in about 2007 or so.

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You bet your sweet #@% I'm a woman.

Zinner:

Thanks. This is very useful information, I have loved this wine in the past and I'm still holding a few. I last had it six months ago and rated it a 91, which is consistent with prior occassions as I recall. Guess I'll not rush to drink the remaining few.

CabNut