2002 Alban Vineyards, Pandora, Edna Valley 1x750ml

Vinous 93

(15.5% alcohol) Medium ruby. High-toned, slightly porty aromas of black raspberry and dark chocolate. Extremely dense and concentrated, with high-toned flavors of raspberry, violet and spices, plus a whiff of meat. This conveys an impression of great energy and definition, and yet it also comes across as seamless. Finishes superlong, with a porty sweetness mitigated by powerful grip. [Stephen Tanzer, 07/01/2005]

Robert Parker 95

The 2002 Pandora (a blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah) boasts explosive notes of kirsch liqueur, a dense ruby/purple color, considerable elegance, wonderful sweetness as well as ripeness, and a superb 55-second finish. Arguably the finest Pandora produced by John Alban to date, it should drink well young, yet last for 10-15 years. Most of these wines are sold via Alban’s mailing list, so if you love Rhone Ranger wines, it’s time to enjoy these remarkable offerings. Tel. (805) 546-0305; Fax (805) 546-9879 [Robert M. Parker, Jr., 31/08/2004]

Anticipated maturity: 2004-2019