2004 Dutch Henry Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Northfork Reserve Chafen Vineyards Hillside Estate (USA, California, Napa Valley)

Dark and ominous in its thickness. Nose of pure black cherry cola. Palate shows a very restrained (at first) black/red fruit profile with some hints of cardamom and nutmeg. Black cherry, creme de cassis, black plum and black berries are in control with a tiny hint of strawberry--a very interesting combo. As this sits it starts be become fragrant and elegant with a wonderful light to mid-weight mouth-feel, almost belying its color. Some violets, cedar and framboise was showing through with some nice dimension and structure; this drank like a wine well above its station tonight; refined, poised, elegant, precise and focused. Long finish made this a winner. Gotta keep an eye out for more. 92pts