Spring Mountain Vineyard Red Blend Elivette Spring Mountain District Napa Valley 2004

“Mainly Cabernet Sauvignon, grown in the winery's estate vineyard, this is an immaturely tough, hard wine, even at the age of 4-plus years. The rugged mountain tannins are drily intrusive, but the vast core of black currants strongly suggests aging. Already throwing some sediment, it should be better after 2009 and beyond.”

“Scents of wild blueberries and mineral tannins fill this dark, supple wine. It's dense, rich and savory, with powerful tannins that hold on through a tight finish. This is primarily cabernet sauvignon (80 percent) with small amounts of petit verdot, merlot and cabernet franc. It's the top selection from Spring Mountain Vineyards' 225 acres of vines and shows the warmth of the early 2004 harvest with lovely textural grace. Probably best ten years from the vintage.”