(May 3, 2017) … An early spring tasting with Larry, I know we tasted more than just five, but I did not want to write notes on all the bad stuff we tried so I opted for these wines:
Palatine Hills 2002 Cabernet Franc – so badly corked we could not get it to our lips without gagging.
Cattail Creek 2007 Merlot Reserve – This award winner has proved to have no legs at all (meaning longevity) – tarry and blah it lacked aroma, was flat and sour the longer it stayed open – horrible … 10 years was too much and too long for it.
Rosewood 2008 Cabernet Franc, Barrel 59 – Ranceau Vineyard – Starts off with licorice, plenty of oak and good acidity – with time it opens up and develops beautifully into loose leaf tobacco and dried raspberry; the short finish it started with became longer and more attractive, there’s even a touch of spice … a real winner from a mediocre year from a winemaker who is a self-described Franc hater.
Coyote’s Run 2007 Meritage – Initially it’s full of cedar, the fruit is missing and all you’re left with is gritty oak – but given time to sit open and it smooths out and becomes silky, the dark fruit emerges, biting spice and the acidity appears to keep things pseudo-fresh, it is 10 years old after all but still holding, give it the benefit of a few hours open.
Fielding 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon – Tannins are still present and assertive, anise shows up but as it opens it gets more expressive: cassis, black raspberry and other dried fruits. A real beauty for its age.
Score: 3 of 5 were drinkable (60%)
A couple of original review:
Rosewood 2008 Cabernet Franc, Barrel 59 – Ranceau Vineyard
Fielding 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon