2007 Mount Eden Cabernet Sauvignon

The Mount Eden 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate possesses a solid core of dark red fruit supported by firm yet well-integrated tannins. It is a typical mountain vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon that needs time in the bottle to come together. The finish is sweet and inviting. The blend is 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14 % Merlot and 1.5% each Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022. Mount Eden is a reference point winery, especially known for fine, ageworthy Chardonnays. I tasted a wide range of wines with Owner and Winemaker Jeffrey Patterson, one of the pioneers of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Mount Eden has a new, entry-level series called Domaine Eden, which is made partially from grapes sourced from a hillside property in Saratoga that once belonged to Cinnabar and that had originally been planted with Mount Eden clones. Ideally the Mount Eden wines need to be opened well in advance, as they can be a bit awkward when young. Tel (888) 865-9463; info@mounteden.com

Bright ruby. Seductive aromas of red- and blackcurrant, singed plum, mocha and minerals, with a smoky overtone. Sappy and smooth in the mouth, with a compelling sweetness to its layered dark berry and cherry flavors. Deep but very energetic, with Pauillac-like iron and tobacco notes and building floral character. The finish is gently tannic, sweet and extremely long. There's 14% merlot and 1.5% each of cabernet franc and petit verdot in here.