The 2009 Era is made up of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. Deep garnet colored, it is a little broody to begin, unfurling slowly to reveal loads of enticingly savory notes of grilled meats, sautéed herbs, dried wild mushrooms and pain grille with a core of blackcurrant cordial, blackberry pie and preserved plum plus wafts of dried mint and star anise. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has bags of elegance and grace with layers of earthy and savory nuances and a good core of black fruit preserves, flanked by firm, fine-grained tannins, finishing with a quiet intensity. Delicious now, this wine should continue to give a lot of pleasure over the next 10+ years.

This is a Bordeaux-style blend based on the two Cabernets, Sauvignon and Franc. It’s made in the modern style, soft, ripe and oaky. Floods the mouth with black cherry and raspberry flavors, sweetened with caramelized oak, and undeniably delicious. However, a combination of high alcohol and excessive softness seems to limit ageability, so enjoy over the next few years. ——S.H.(12/31/2011)—— 90