2009 Diamond Creek, Red Rock Terrace, Napa Valley 1x750ml

Robert Parker 95

The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Rock Terrace boasts serious depth and power, but it appears to be holding all of the elements very much in reserve. Hints of camphor, tar, menthol, wild flowers and dark fruit open up gradually over time. Constantly changing in the glass, the 2009 is endowed with superb energy and tension. It is also incredibly inward and in need of considerable cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2024-2049. Diamond Creek is one of Napa Valley’s historic estates, as anyone who has been fortunate enough to drink the wines from the 1970s can attest. These are some of the most powerful, unapologetically structured wines being made in Napa Valley today. As such, they require considerable patience. Today’s wines are a little more approachable when young than in the past " the result of picking a little riper than was once the custom " but I think it is safe to say that readers who are unfamiliar with this style might be shocked by the sheer tannic heft in these wines when first released. Overall, I found a little more finesse in the 2009s than in the 2008s, but these still remain Cabernets that need significant cellaring. Tel. (707) 942-6926; info@diamondcreekvineyards.com [Antonio Galloni, 27/12/2012]

Anticipated maturity: 2024-2049

Vinous 95+

The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Rock Terrace boasts serious depth and power, but it appears to be holding all of the elements very much in reserve. Hints of camphor, tar, menthol, wild flowers and dark fruit open up gradually over time. Constantly changing in the glass, the 2009 is endowed with superb energy and tension. It is also incredibly inward and in need of considerable cellaring. [Antonio Galloni, 12/01/2012]

Anticipated maturity: 2024-2049