2010 Diamond Creek, Volcanic Hill, Napa Valley 1x750ml

Vinous 94

While most wines in this tasting are gorgeous, but young, Diamond Creek’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Volcanic Hill comes across as raw and not yet fully formed. There is impressive power and structure in the glass, even if the elements haven’t fully come together yet. Some bottles show a slight trace of brett that I do not find overpowering or distracting, but it is there. I am shortening the drinking window a touch, not because I think the wine won’t age, but rather because I am afraid the brett may become too overpowering as time passes. [Antonio Galloni, 06/01/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035

Robert Parker 96

The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Volcanic Hill comes from 8 acres planted in the white tufa/volcanic soils that make a sharp contrast with the red, iron-rich soils of Red Rock Terrace and the gravel-filled soils of Gravelly Meadow. This cuvee tends to be the most explosive and richest of the Diamond Creek Cabs. The deep ruby/purple-tinged 2010 Volcanic Hill is more restrained and reserved on the nose. That restraint is unleashed in the mouth as this is the richest, fullest-bodied and most concentrated of this trio. Lots of blackberry, cassis, smoke and meaty barbecue notes can be found in this titan of a Cabernet Sauvignon. The finish is very long. Forget this 2010 for 8-10 years and drink it over the following 30+. Definitely on the comeback trail, this iconic winery, which is celebrating 40+ years in Napa Valley, has a resume that includes some of the greatest wines made in Napa during its heyday in the 1970s (the 1974, 1976s and 1978s). Tel. (707) 942-6926 [Robert M. Parker, Jr., 31/10/2013]

Anticipated maturity: 2021-2051