Lail Vineyards J Daniel Cuvee 2005

Description

Wine Advocate #174 Dec 2007 Robert M. Parker, Jr. RATED 94+ Drink: 2012 – 2030 The 2005 J. Daniel Cuvee has put on considerable weight since last year, and the good news is that there are 1,400 cases of it. Dense ruby/purple in color with notes of graphite, black currant, coffee bean, crushed rock, chocolate, and spice, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is full-bodied, powerful, tannic, and seems to combine the best of both a top Bordeaux and a Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030. RATED 94+ RATED 94+ RATED 94+ RATED 94+

The top three vineyards constituted this wine from Robin and John Lail – the Mole Hill Vineyard on Howell Mountain, the Vine Hill Ranch in Oakville, and the Shuler Vineyard in Coombsville. Bordeaux in style, somewhat St.-Estèphe-like in its earthiness, with high tannins and firm grip, this wine has good acidity and plenty of graphite and blackcurrant notes It is still somewhat austere and tannic, but dense and medium to full-bodied, with a positive upside to it. Only 710 cases were produced, and it was aged in 70% new French oak for 19 months prior to bottling. Give this wine another 2-4 years of bottle age and drink over the following two decades.Drink Date

2017 – 2039