1999 Viader Red
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Tasting notes
Aromas of dark fruits, violet and licorice show a touch of incipient maderization (my first bottle was more advanced). Fat, sweet and slightly high-toned on the palate; fully mature and showing a chocolatey ripeness but not the verve I'd expect from its Cabernet Franc component. This broad, chewy wine delivers an intriguing saline character and finishes with plush tannins but turned a bit porty as it opened in the glass. I'd drink it now as it does not appear to have anywhere to go. (13.5% alcohol)
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Very deep crimson right out to the rim. Sweet chocolate cherry notes on the nose overlays that stoniness in this case. A slightly singed quality. Lovely sweetness at first and then a very dry finish. Quite long. The most typically California wine of the lot. A hint of beef extract. (JR)
This blend of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon and 39% Cabernet Franc reveals attractive cassis and blueberry notes, subtle oak, and spice. This wine is graceful, elegant, and medium-bodied, with sweet ripe tannin, and a moderate finish. It will drink well for 10-12 years. Tel. (707) 963-3816
Still the same confidence, concentration and mineral undertow, presumably from the volcanic slopes of the estate on Howell Mountain, but this wine has more spice and delicacy than either the 1998 or the 1995. The Cabernet Franc proportion is a typical 39 per cent. Beautiful balance. (JR)