45 Case production, second wine from Herb Lamb Vineyards. It's a consolation prize for those of us not on the "A" list. My allocation was a grand total of two (2) bottles.
Color: Dark purple and nearly opaque in the light of the laptop computer and the 40 watt bulb in the lamp.
Nose: Dry earth with a hint of violets and spice. Somewhat muted.
Taste: Blackberry jam with some of the sugar left out. Round and supple tannins with a soft mouthfeel. A hint of chinese five spice. A bit monolithic but great fruit attack.
Finish: A respectable 30 seconds and no drying tannins. Very nice. B+
Overall Impressions: A very nice Cali Cab. Not a tannic monster that needs a lifetime in the cellar. Could easily hold for a few years but lacks the tannin backbone and acidity that would reward long dark days in the cellar.
I wish I could purchase more than two bottles of this. It's one of the better second lables around and the price is very good, especially when compared to the regular bottling.
I would give this an easy 93 GA Points. Drink now until 2008.
