(Tasting Notes from March, 2006)

1990:
Attractively aged with brandied cherry, cigar box, cedar and brown spice. Enticing hints of dusty spice and some lingering tannins—nicely evolved with mature cabernet aromas and flavors throughout. Ready to be drunk and enjoyed.

1991:
Fully matured, delicate and subtle. Evoking delicate smells of orange rind, exotic tea, mushroom and ash. Distinctive for more than a decade, our 1991 has reached its peak and is ready for consumption.

1992:
Captivating smells of succulent dark fruit and violets on the nose. Saturated, big and lively, this vintage is just now beginning to open up. Full of vigor and lush intensity on the palate, the 1992 has a beautiful finish and is a pleasure to drink (patience with this vintage is now being rewarded).

1993:
Extremely fruit-forward, the 1993 offers generous amounts of sweet cherry, currant and spice. Possessing rich and supple tannins, this is a handsome and enjoyable wine from start to finish—mocha, cola, leather and savory spice.

1994:
Elusive and reticent, the tightly wound 1994 will need additional time to attain its full potential. Hints of kirsch, brambly fruit, tobacco and white chocolate on the nose, followed by a well defined palate of seductive tannins, spice and dried cherries. Patience will need to be practiced!

1995:
This is a big and complex wine packed with bright blueberry and raspberry fruit, sandalwood and molasses. Closely emulating the nose, the palate is extremely well balanced and dense with pleasing, chewy tannins, an unmistakably rich fruit core and a finish that goes on and on...

1996:
Youthful and surprisingly lively, the 1996 is a pleasing drink. Imbued with a myriad of potpourri spice, cranberry, dusty jasmine and forest floor. This is an expressive wine—pretty and full of charm. Currently quite delightful!

1997:
Stunning and complex, brimming with layers of overripe cherries, leather, molasses and caramel, the 1997 is still extremely rambunctious and youthful. Beautiful density on the palate with plenty of broad, harmonious tannins. This near perfect wine portends many years of enjoyment ahead.

1998:
The 1998 is showing lovely balance and refinement with an evolved nose of blackcurrants and flowers—very Bordeaulais. Exceptional approachability. Mouth-coating cassis, white chocolate and a soft, smooth finish. What a treat!

1999:
Full of finesse, pedigree and lush dark fruit, this wine is elegant from beginning to end. From the dark ruby color to the endless tannins that linger on the finish, this unabashed youngster will be a joy to sample over the next decade. Absolutely flawless!

2000:
Charming, forward and approachable despite its youth. Ripe berries, mocha, toasted malt, incense and jasmine on the nose and palate. The sweet, high-toned nose is followed by a palate that nicely reflects the elegant refinement found year in and year out in our Cabernet.

Maya tasting notes