Saturday, October 10, 2009

2004 Rockledge Cabernet Sauvignon The Rocks

USA, California, Napa Valley, St. Helena

30 minutes decant. This is one of the darkest, densest wines I have had in months. Swirling coats the glass with a ruby tint. The nose has some cherry cola, creme de cassis and black currant jam. The palate shows a wonderful explosion of black fruits: Currant, black cherries, black berries, black plums. There is some soy and a hint of vanilla. All this is engulfed in a blanket of chewy textured tannins. Pure and clean, this is huge! A wonderful acid reminder-note toward the finish. A very powerful cabernet that begs for a grilled steak or chops. I think time will soften this, but its so enjoyable now with an extended decant (My third bottle). A super finish that I can still taste after 2 minutes while typing this. Wow.

Mike Hirby is one talented wine-maker. I am so excited he is visiting with my tasting group CLONYC next month to share some of his new releases. (93 pts.)