1997 Lail Vineyards J. Daniel Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA 750ml

The 1997 J. Daniel Cuvee is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot (1200 cases produced). The dense ruby/purple-colored 1997 boasts a lavishly pure nose of blackberries, cassis, minerals, licorice, chocolate, and toast. It is expansive, with the vintage's tell-tale richness, sweet tannin, and outstanding ripeness and concentration. The persistent finish lasts for nearly 40 seconds. This wine possesses an openness and sweetness that gives it the impression of being ready to drink, but I suspect much more will emerge with aging. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2020. Kudos to John and Robin Lail for the efforts they have produced to date. The talented young Frenchman, Philippe Melka, is their winemaker.