2001 Viader Proprietary Red

Displaying loads of complexity, this blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Cabernet Franc has a nose of bay leaf, black currants, cedar in a very perfumed, medium-bodied, quintessentially elegant style. It is not a far-fetched comparison to call this Napa Valley Cheval Blanc, although that wine is a nearly equal part blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon rather than Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Dark plum/purple, pure, and close to full maturity, this wine should continue to age nicely for at least another decade or more. Tel. (707) 963-3816; Fax (707) 963-3817

Blackish crimson – a very deep colour. Tarry nose. Complete and rich. Sweet, round and full. Quite a blockbuster though with a neat dry finish. Exceptionally persistent. Quite alcoholic but still well balanced. Round and powerful though more jagged than the 2002. (JR)

Good ruby-red color. Vibrant aromas of blackberry, violet, tobacco, cedar and chocolatey oak. Sweet, supple and silky, with a burnished oak element and broad, fine tannins. Distinctly creamy in the middle, even on the soft side. Not quite as gripping as it appeared to be from barrel a year ago, but aromatic and suave. The cabernet franc was less potent in 2001 than in 2002, notes Viader, who told me that her wine is always under 14%.