2002 Rudd Oakville Estate Red
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Tasting notes
Still firm, backward and atypically youthful for a 2002, Rudd’s blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot displays enormous promise, but it needs to be forgotten for another 3-5 years. Its inky/blue/purple color is followed by notes of graphite, roasted coffee, subtle barbecue smoke, blackberries, blueberries and hints of acacia flowers, ink and camphor. Rich, full-bodied and layered, it should be at its peak between 2017-2037. Tel. (707) 944-8577
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(79% cabernet sauvignon, 11% cabernet franc, 6% petit verdot, 3% merlot and 1% malbec) Good medium ruby. Subtle aromas of blackberry, licorice and tarry new oak. Suave and light on its feet, with juicy flavors of blueberry, currant, violet and cedar lifted by minerality from these red soils. A bit more thoroughly ripe and less leafy than the 2002 cabernet, but not quite so fruit-driven. Very dense wine, finishing with substantial, fine tannins that come late, allowing the wine's well-delineated flavors to expand on the palate. Very sophisticated red wine.
Medium ruby. Vibrant aromas of black fruits, licorice and minerals, with enticing peppery lift. Very broad and rich but adamantly dry, with the wine's minerality contributing to its perfume in the mouth. Finishes very subtle and long, with major, broad, thoroughly ripe tannins and a somewhat Graves-like flavor of hot stones.