2005 D.R. Stephens Cabernet Sauvignon DR II Walther Vineyard

Not exactly “straight off the truck” but pretty close. This latest release of the DRII was waiting for me when I returned from a business trip this weekend. For it’s sophomore effort I had high expectations. I was not disappointed. For as young as it is this wine is smooth and very well put together. The winemaker, Celia Masyczek, really knows how to structure Cab blends. The nose doesn’t give much yet but has hints of mocha and spice. The flavors are black currant, spice, and blackberry that are extracted and ultra ripe. The tannins are well integrated and will no doubt soften with just a little bottle age. The finish goes on and on. At the risk of sounding like a shill for the producer, this wine is worth the $60 bucks I paid for this bottle and eleven more just (hopefully) like it. Decant for now.