2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain

The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain, which comes largely from the Reverie Vineyard, is the softest of this quartet and thus will show best over the near term. It exhibits a dark ruby/purple color along with notes of berry fruit, camphor, roasted herbs and crushed rocks, an elegant, medium to full-bodied style, silky tannins and an endearing opulence as well as freshness. It should drink well for 10-15 years. One of the stars in Jess Jackson's Artisans and Estates portfolio, Lokoya focuses on high elevation mountain vineyards in four separate Napa appellations. Winemaker Chris Carpenter has been the force behind these wines for many years. Production levels were very low in 2008 with the exception of the Mt. Veeder (approximately 700 cases). The magnificent 2007 remains the vintage of reference for Lokoya along with 1997, 2001 and 2002. However, 2008 is a strong vintage although the spring frosts dramatically curtailed quantity. Speaking of the 2007s, which I reviewed from bottle last year, the scores they merited were: 2007 Diamond Mountain (95), 2007 Howell Mountain (97), 2007 Mt. Veeder (99) and 2007 Spring Mountain (95+). Tel. (866) 462-4641; Fax (866) 853-1707