Upon pulling the cork, there was a blast of massive dark fruit aroma. I left it to air while I did some things and my wife poured some into our glasses to air for a while. When I returned to the kitchen and got near the glasses, the aroma of sweet berries was noticeable. The palate lived up to the nose. It had lots of dark berry and a bit of cocoa, balanced well with a nice amount of tannin and just the right acid level for me. The oak was present but moderate. I have had a few bottles of this over the last few years and it has gotten better each time.
Is this the JV in WA state wine? If so, I’ve had this several times. When young - no bueno. But, I’ve had either this vintage or one after it…far better. (Again, if this is the wine I think it is).
You are correct. This is the Antinori/Chateau Ste. Michelle project.
I have also had the 2002, about 2 years ago, which was also good, but I imagine would have been better if I had let it sit as long as this one.
05 is the best they have ever produced IMO, and I have had 1995-2005…and even better things ahead now that they have a facility on Red Mountain…of course I sell this, so take it for what that’s worth.