Rich, earthy, decadent aromas are intense and enormously concentrated, with sharply focused, currant, pencil lead, mineral, sage and dusty berry flavors that offer uncommon depth and concentration. Finishes with an amazingly long and detailed aftertaste. Should be a 20-year wine, with ease. (JL) (11/2002)

The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard (a 1,750-case blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot, and 3% Merlot) boasts explosive aromas of incense, creme de cassis, minerals, and flowers. It is medium to full-bodied, with great harmony, and a sweet attack as well as finish. This is a classic example of power and richness allied to considerable elegance. Those in the foreign press who accuse California of being incapable of producing elegant wines have obviously never tasted this Cabernet. (RP) (8/2002)