A blend of 89% Sonoma and 11% Napa fruit, the 2004 Reserve Claret is composed of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. More coffee, toffee and caramelized red and black fruit aromas jump from the glass of this dense plum/purple-colored wine. It reveals a slightly lighter edge than the Cabernet Sauvignon. Medium to full-bodied with beautiful fruit, it is more compact than the Cabernet, but is also a great example of Northern California viticulture. This full-bodied beauty will benefit from another 2-3 years of cellaring, and should age effortlessly for 15-20 years thereafter. Tel. (707) 963-4949

The strength of the 2005 vintage at Pride is again noticeable when one compares some of the lower level Cabernet Sauvignons with the 2004 Reserve Claret. While the latter wine (89% from Sonoma and 11% from Napa) is outstanding, it is not as good as the less expensive 2005 Cabernets. Previously recommended: 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve (93+), 2003 Merlot Vintner’s Select Mountain Top Vyd. (91). Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-6039

They call it Claret because it’s mainly Merlot, with one-third Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is far softer and less tannic than Pride’s Cabernets, and riper, too, with blackberry pie-filling and root beer flavors, and finishes a little sweet. Doesn’t seem like it has a future, so drink now.——S.H.(2/1/2008)—— 85