~ Library Selection ~

Harvest Date: 10/15/1998

Barrel Age: 20 months in French Oak

Alcohol: 14.2%

Release Date: November 2001

Cases produced: 600

“The growing season in 1998 was a difficult one for Napa Valley. Cold weather throughout the entire summer resulted in a need to drastically cut the crop and to harvest late in order to achieve sufficient ripeness. This vintage drinks best with 45 minutes of decanter time, more than our past vintages. The characteristic Vineyard 29 balance between nose, mid-palate and finish is definitely evident, as is the juicy, fruit-forward body.” Heidi Barrett, winemaker.

Reviews:

Robert Parker Jr., The Wine Advocate:

"The 1998, made from a 3-acre, 100% Cabernet sauvignon vineyard planted with the 'Grace' clone of Cabernet, is an undeniable success for the vintage. Aged 20 months in wood, it exhibits a dense purple color as well as a pure, sweet nose of black currants, spice, licorice, and tobacco. Soft and full-bodied, with supple tannin, outstanding concentration, and excellent balance, it will drink beautifully for 15+ years. 90 points."

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar:

"Full ruby-red. Fruit driven nose features cassis, black cherry, dark chocolate, leather and spicy oak. Juicy, firm and dense, with impressively intense flavors of black cherry and minerals. Pliant and chewy but also sharply delineated. Finishes with substantial mouthcoating tannins and excellent persistence. A strong early showing for this wine."