1996 Jones Family Cabernet Sauvignon

This project will be interesting to follow. The hillside vineyard south of Calistoga and north of St. Helena has been developed by famed vineyard manager David Abreu. Renowned wine-maker Heidi Peterson Barrett runs the show in the cellar. This limited production (405 cases) Cabernet Sauvignon is already drawing attention in insider circles. The first release from this 7-acre vineyard, the 1996, exhibits a dense, dark ruby/purple color, as well as a restrained but promising nose of black currants, blackberries, new oak, and minerals. The wine is sweet, elegant, and medium to full-bodied, with high tannin and an austere finish. The oak is nicely meshed, and the texture is attractive and chewy. If the tannin softens and its bouquet becomes more forthcoming, this 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon may merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2014. By the way, this wine improved significantly with exposure to air. The tannin became sweeter and better integrated after sixty minutes of aeration. Fax (707) 942-0467