2007 Abreu Howell Mountain Bordeaux Blend

The riveting 2007 Howell Mountain exhibits aromas of black raspberries, blueberries, crushed rocks and flowers along with full-bodied power accompanied by an ethereal delicacy and sublimity that make it a haunting wine to smell and taste. It should drink well for 25+ years. I am increasingly impressed with Abreu‰۪s Howell Mountain Proprietary Red wine. The blend tends to be about two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon, 20-25% Cabernet Franc and 10-15% Merlot and Petit Verdot. A completely different animal than the Cappella or Madrona Ranch (which both come from lower elevation vineyards), this cuvee reveals extraordinary notes of crushed rocks and a liqueur of minerals in a steely, full-bodied, powerful style that possesses both intensity and finesse. (RP)