2001 Karl Lawrence Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Morisoli Vineyard - USA, California, Napa Valley (5/22/2010)

Tasted blind. A beautiful dark crimson color. A nose of black cherry, sassafras, and creme de cassis. An incredible purity and balance, this wine really showed its breed early, and evolved into something almost other-worldly in the 2 and and a half hours I sat with it. A black fruited medley led with the black cherry. There was some kirsch, leather, & graphite. The tannins are fully resolved, but a long life remains, this had a coy almost inperceptable acidity, again emphasizing the balance and structure--but then, that's what you signed up for with these, and this did not disappoint. One of the single best Cabernets I have come across. Phenomenal. (98 pts.)

2002 Forman Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley (5/22/2010)

A carmine brickish color. This was much showier and blowsier than anything else on the table. A very intense nose of flowers and red fruits, the palate continued the theme, which was strange to me as it seemed much 'darker' profiled last time I had it. The tannins were somewhat raw and not lined up as I remember either. The acidity seemed elevated and the overall feel was somewhat 'fat' for a Forman, which I always expect elegance from-- it really showed the vintage characteristics like a big red letter. Others liked it better than I on this showing. (91 pts.)

1997 Pride Mountain Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley (5/22/2010)

Tasted blind. Some sediment afoat, but did not detract. A darkish purple edged wine with tons of cassis and cherries flowing out into the nose. A black and red fruit wine of red & black currants, plums, bing cherries and some chinese apple. There was a streak of vanilla with a hint of cardamom, this was fully resolved and nicely balanced. A good start on an evening that just never let up. A meium body wine with a long balanced finish rthat kept some soy and leather on the line. Interesting (92 pts.)

2005 Karl Lawrence Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Select Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard - USA, California, Napa Valley (5/22/2010)

After the '01 Morisoli, this sure had to hold up. It did. It was super dark almost opaque. A somewhat blackish red fruit profile with cassis, pomegranate, plums, and black cherry, this did not show quite the balance and intensity, but the mark had been set early, so fairness may not be on its side. It was intense with a plush mouthfeel. A bit showy, this showed its To-Kalon lineage. A finish that was long and clean, with the black fruit lingering. Very nice indeed. (93 pts.)