1999 Silver Oak, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 1x750ml

Robert Parker 87

The opaque ruby-colored 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 6% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot. The wine reveals a sweet attack of fruitcake, spice box, dried herbs, and black fruits. It is bordeaux-like, with hard, tough tannin, an angular personality, and an astringent finish. This is a perplexing offering. There is an impressive beginning, but the finish is narrow and pinched, hence the question mark. My instincts suggest it will age for 12-15 years, but will always be dry and austere, without the charm and sweetness of the finest vintages. Tel. (800) 273-8809; Fax (707) 944-2817 [Robert M. Parker, Jr., 31/08/2002]

Anticipated maturity: 2002-2017

Vinous 89-92

(with 8% cabernet franc, 6% merlot and 3% petit verdot) Rich, full nose combines roasted currant, cedar, spice box, chocolate mint, coconut and smoky oak, along with a lightly leafy quality. The lushest and fullest wine of this tasting, with the most harmonious combination of fruit and acidity. Dense but firm and nicely delineated. Finishes with fine, spreading tannins that coat the mouth and teeth. [Stephen Tanzer, 05/01/2002]