This wine, a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 4% Malbec, and 3% Petit Verdot, is one of the finest efforts Cain Cellars has yet made. Fortunately, there were 5,500 cases produced. The wine reveals an opaque purple color, followed by a smoky, sweet cassis, subtle vanillin-scented nose, rich, medium to full-bodied, supple flavors, and beautifully integrated acidity, tannin, alcohol, and wood. This outstanding effort is accessible, but should age effortlessly for 15 years. Shame on me for under-rating this wine from cask!

Dark, dense and detailed, with pleasant flavors of earthy currant, plum, cedar and spice, and intense, with firm, dry tannins and a complex aftertaste. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. 5,500 cases made.