I have been a fan of this Estate since the mid 90’s and was saddened to hear that the property was sold in 2003 to the Futo’s who now make their like named Estate Wine from there. The property adjoins Harlan and I managed to sneak tastes of his grapes many times when visiting. Unlike some fabulous Bordeaux blogger, I was never able to determine the greatness of a vintage by tasting grapes. 
The 1994, 95, 96 and 97 were some of my favorite under the radar wines from Napa in that era. I brought a huge party to the grounds celebrating my 50th birthday and Carol, the former owner and her family bent backwards for my guests who also fell in love with the wines and ordered more than 40 cases one sunny afternoon in September 1999.
In the nineties, the wines were made by the wonderful Heidi Barrett, this was the last Estate Bottling released by Oakford that was made by Marco DiJullio.
I usually decant Oakford wines at least several hours and probably should have with this one, but just dropped my wonderful mooning 5 year old off at his Mom’s and needed something quick.
Pop and pour.
I was met by an enchanting nose of spice that was really powerful.
The nose provided a high toned and perfumed quality to it with visions of black currants, red cherries, dark spices, and some good tones of red fruits. The palate is well balanced with good depth and lift, still high tannins but roundish so tolerable. That nose is really enchanting. I will waltz with this glass for a while and see how she develops with air.
For now, Me likey.
JB 
