1997 Lail Cabernet Sauvignon J Daniel Cuvée
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Tasting notes
Deep ruby-red color. Very ripe, deep aromas of black raspberry, boysenberry, dark chocolate, spices, cedar and musky underbrush, with a floral note of violet emerging with air. Boasts lovely mid-palate thickness of texture and flavor intensity, conveying an impression of solidity--even a rigidity--to its dark fruit, spice and floral flavors. Finishes with slightly aggressive tannins that avoid dryness. Back in '97, this wine was made from only about 30% mountain fruit. (14.4% alcohol; 50% new oak)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 1997 J. Daniel Cuvee is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot (1200 cases produced). The dense ruby/purple-colored 1997 boasts a lavishly pure nose of blackberries, cassis, minerals, licorice, chocolate, and toast. It is expansive, with the vintage's tell-tale richness, sweet tannin, and outstanding ripeness and concentration. The persistent finish lasts for nearly 40 seconds. This wine possesses an openness and sweetness that gives it the impression of being ready to drink, but I suspect much more will emerge with aging. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2020. Kudos to John and Robin Lail for the efforts they have produced to date. The talented young Frenchman, Philippe Melka, is their winemaker. Phone 707-965-1300; fax 707-965-1311