2006 Forman Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley

45 minute double decant.The color is deep black with bright purple tinged edges. The nose is cardamom and black cherry/sassafras. The palate attacks, and I do mean attack with plushy black and blue fruits that are just gushing with flair. A very different road for Ric Forman indeed. There is much to pay attention to with this: black currants, black plum, forest floor, some menthol, some soy, some lead pencil, some creme de cassis, and a noticeable dollop of Kirsch Royal. A medium to heavy weight mouth feel, this has a real great sense of balance and structure, but some elegance is hiding amongst the rogue elements. Wonderful intertwined tannins with a lilty acidic base, this is a real stunner. Black and ominous, this is very Californian in its style. Grabbed a few on a deal last month. Well worth $35, hell, well worth $65. Glad I have a few more. Good to go for the next half dozen years or so-- but what the hell do I know? 92 points