2001 Robert Foley Claret

(includes 10% merlot) Saturated bright ruby. Extroverted aromas of cassis, blackberry, minerals and dark chocolate show a strong element of torrefaction. Then lush, smooth and extremely deep, with terrific vinosity giving the wine the texture of a great Medoc wine. With its complicating notes of cedar, coffee, earth and tobacco, this is quite different in style than the outstanding Pride Reserve Claret that's also made by Bob Foley. Finishes with powerful, brooding tannins and great palate-staining persistence.

The virtually perfect 2001 Claret (80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot) is a tour de force in winemaking. It possesses extraordinary concentration, intensity, purity, and ripeness, yet retains an elegant style. With a spectacular perfume of blackberry liqueur, cassis, acacia flowers, graphite, espresso roast, and chocolate as well as a 60-second finish, this long, dense 2001 is still primary, but already fun to drink. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020. Tel. (707) 965-2669