2004 Reserve Speciale Cabernet Sauvignon

Far more backward and tannic and needing slightly more time is the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Speciale. Also 100% Cabernet Sauvignon bottled unfined and unfiltered after 24 months in French and American oak, 69% of this came from Monte Rosso and the rest from the Smothers-Remick Ridge and Murray vineyards. This is a larger production cuvee of 2,076 cases. Opaque purple in color, it displays notes of graphite, blackberry and cassis, a touch of vanilla and loamy soil notes. The wine is full-bodied, powerful and has yet to reveal its full potential. This is a beauty to keep in the cellar for another 3-4 years and drink over the following 15 or more years. It is interesting that Richard Arrowood always thought of 2004 as one of his favorite vintages and kept more of his Cabernets back for personal consumption than usual. He appears to have been prescient in his judgment. Dick Arrowood made these beautiful wines and as anyone knows he has one of the most impressive, longest and high-quality resumes of any wine producer in Northern California. Tel. (707) 935-2600; Fax: (707) 938-5947