2005 Cliff Lede Vineyards Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District, USA

Winemaker Notes
This multi-tiered wine boasts layers of complexity that evolve as the wine slowly decants. An initial burst of black licorice drizzled on a blueberry pie is accented by intensely perfumed posies. A second, deeper layer combines a kirsch component with sandalwood, nutmeg, and candied citrus notes. Such heady aromatics segue into rich and harmonious flavors of dark ripe cherry, cassis, and chocolate cordial framed by classically structured acidity and focused tannin. A svelte yet dense extract creates a finishing richness which declares that this is a wine for the ages.

Blend: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Merlot

Press
Rated 95 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry (925 cases of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Malbec, and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot) is the richest of these wines. Superbly deep ruby/purple-colored with notes of blackberry, cassis, licorice, subtle smoke, and incense, this opulent wine has a plush palate, silky tannins, impressive purity, stature, and length. However, the tannins are there and the wine still tastes primary despite its enormous potential. Give it 3-4 years of bottle age and drink it over the following three decades.