2003 Verite La Joie Sonoma County California USA

Press
Rated 95 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A Medoc-styled offering, the 2003 La Joie is composed of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that achieved 14% alcohol. It represents a Sonoma Country version of the famous Pauillac, Lynch Bages. Cedar, black currant, licorice, black olive, coffee and white chocolate characteristics are found in this tannic, structured, masculine effort that still needs 4-5 years in the cellar. It should drink well for at least 20 years. These Verite wines are not for those who lack patience. Made by Bordelais winemaker Pierre Seillan, these may be the longest lived red wines in the Jackson family portfolio. (RP)

Rated 94 points Vinous
Good bright ruby-red. Very ripe aromas of cassis, black cherry, graphite, iron, tobacco, menthol and spice cake. Lush and broad on entry, then sweeter and lusher in the middle palate than the Muse, with a captivating chocolatey quality and outstanding volume. As rich and full as this is, there's no sense of excess weight. Finishes long, dense and palate-saturating with major dusty tannins. This 'Pauillac' is sweeter and deeper than Seillan's 'Pomerol,' a comment on the comparative quality of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in California's North Coast. (ST)