Clos du Val, Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, 2009

Tasting: Napa & Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon

Lightly herbaceous nose but not disagreeable. Fairly rich, limpid, has some delicacy and considerable finesse. It shows admirable restraint for Napa Cabernet but doesn’t lack structure. It does lack complexity, however, and the finish is direct and simple, with light tannins. Quite long.

Tasting: Napa & Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon

Farmyard nose with note of gaminess and tar. The wine is big, the tannins are high with generous alcohol.

Tasting: Napa & Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon

Kirsch and sour cherry notes in nose. Attention-grabbing acidity. All the elements – fruit, oak, tannins and acid – seem a bit disconnected right now. Very dry tannins.