NapaValley, California 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 4% Merlot and 1% Malbec A new stylish and premium exclusivity for Waitrose, from the Rudd estate that stretches for 80 acres on the eastern bench of Oakville, nestled between Screaming Eagle, Dalla Valle and Plumpjack. Only 1,380 cases produced (have 300 for the UK), and 2004 is only the third vintage. 19 months in French oak and bottled June 2006 . All handled in small lots, as might be expected for this bijou property. Unfined, unfiltered. Consultant winemaking from Michel Rolland.

Stupidly heavy bottle. Minty, eucalyptus, Cabernet strong on the nose. Sweet eucalyptus, in the mouth. Savoury finish. Very good indeed, but £45?? If I could afford it I’d want to give it some time. Alc 15%, TA 5.4g/l, pH 3.71. Available from Wine Direct and 15 branches.
15/10/2008

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