1999 Blankiet "Paradise Hills" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

The 1999 Proprietary Red, made from Cabernet Sauvignon with only a dollop of Cabernet Franc blended in, boasts a saturated purple color along with complex, smoky aromatics consisting of espresso, licorice, blackberry, cassis, and mineral scents. It is full-bodied, with noticeable structure, and a pure finish. The vintage's cool climate tannins are obvious in this dramatic, beautifully made debut offering. (RP)