TN: 2002 Marston Family and Etude Rutherford Cab Sauv

2002 Marston Family (Spring Mountain) - At a beautiful spot. Big, brooding mountain cab that is fully integrated. Nose of dark plums and blackberries, espresso and chocolate. Palate consistent with nose, with a nice touch of ripe tannins. Finish is enormous and lingering. I first had this wine maybe four years ago at a horizontal tasting and bought a six-pack. Down to two now and this one was the most impressive.

2002 Etude Rutherford - A very good wine but it suffered being poured after the Marston Family. Came across as somewhat overly lean. Nose and flavor profiles ran more towards red fruit, with a touch of vanilla and a slight element of Rutherford dust. Not something I would chase.

Nice notes Mr E.

Steve
Was Philippe Melkka making the Marston in 2002, I don’t remember. I have some of the '04 & '05 they sound very similar to your notes and impressive as well.

Carrie - I’m not sure. I just emailed the winery and will report back. I love their wines, which (fortunately) fly a little under the radar.