TN: 2002 Gemstone (USA, California, Napa Valley, Yountville)

  • 2002 Gemstone - USA, California, Napa Valley, Yountville (6/15/2009)
    76% cab, 12% merlot, 9% cab franc, 3% petite verdot… Time treats these Gemstones well. The last time I had this it was nice, but surely not monumental. Today, 4 years later it has added weight and class, but more importantly, structure.
    A very deep and dark reddish black color, this was very fragrant on the nose: cassis, flowers, and black cherries. On the palate there is a very concentrated mouth feel that I don’t really remember this having previous time while sampling. Great structure with some great lushness. The black fruit profile is my playground. Great black currant, plums, blackberries with some kirsch notes, tar, and a hint of soy. A bit of leather and a hint of cedar box. The tannins are still noticeable but did not negatively affect his showing on ounce. It was decanted 4 hours (I believe), which surely was advantageous in this showing. A real elegant classy and uber balanced wine, with a long creamy smooth finish. (92 pts.)

Posted from CellarTracker

Thanks for the note Mike. I am wondering how how the 2002s are going to fare since it was such a consumer friendly vintage. I believe this is Melka wine just has he was rising up the consulting ranks, and I am eager to see how his stuff evolves. Your comment “Great structure with some great lushness.” pretty much encapsulates his style to a T.

Cheers [cheers.gif]

I had a very similar experience with the 2001. Trying it not long after release, I sort of dismissed them and didn’t continue buying. Recently I opened an '01 and it made me regret my decision a bit.