1997 Thunder Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Bates Ranch

The 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Bates Ranch is a monster, old style effort made from a dry farmed vineyard planted in 1972. There are 662 cases of this thick, chocolaty, oak, earth, raspberry, and black currant-scented effort. It is dense, full-bodied, and rustic. There is a lot going on in this impressive 1997. It needs to resolve its tannin and become more seamless, so 4-6 more years of cellaring is suggested. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020. Former rocket scientist, Milan Maximovich, began this winery in 1995. After a mixed beginning, recent vintages are worthy of consumer attention. Tel. (831) 439-8716