1997 Eisele Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 1x750ml

Robert Parker 91

Tasted at the Fine Wine Experience vertical in London. A similar hue to the 1996 but the nose is very different. This is sweeter and more opulent, more cassis, black cherries and blueberry and seems to have a higher extraction than the 1996, very opulent and vivacious. Notes of blackberry, cherry and raspberry with noticeable level of glycerin and alcohol. Unlike the 1994 and 1996, it lacks the balance and sophistication, though the finish is a little lean and lacking persistency in context of the vintage. Tasted May 2006. [01/05/2006]

Vinous 92+

Full ruby-red. Expressive nose combines black raspberry, currant, black cherry, chocolate, tobacco and sandalwood. Lush and sweet but fresh, with a firm edge of acidity giving shape to the flavors. Big and mouthfilling but not at all heavy. The tannins are suave and fine. A bit dominated by the oak today. This wine is virtually always in an awkward stage about six months after the bottling, says Bart Araujo, although I recall that the ’96 was atypically showy a year ago. [Stephen Tanzer, 05/01/2000]