TN 2006 Woodward Canyon Old Vine Cabernet Popped and poured. Inky colored with an alcohol nose which was weird considering its relatively low ABV. First sip was also alcohol and little to no fruit. I double checked the vintage to be sure it was 2006 and not 2016. After thirty minutes in the glass the wine settles, alcohol notes disappear and it opens up some. Heavy dark fruits with hints of vanilla but not sweet and the finish is starting to linger for 45 seconds before the tannin makes itself known. Continued to improve over the course of the next hour with fruits more delineated, (black currant), and holding a one minute finish culminating in cinnamon spice. I think we opened this wine way too early. It’s good but you can tell it will be great down the road. If you have any, try it in 5 and/or 10 years.
That was a wonderful note.
I bought the “Dedication Series” wines in the '90s. I think that is this bottling now. The oak stuck out in their youth. It does resolve and the wines are pretty in their maturity. '93-'96 all still hanging in there from sampling over the past few years.
Cheers,
fred
Nice note, Randy. I really, really love the Old Vines and Dedication Series wines from Woodward Canyon. In their youth, though, they oak can be a little much. I’m surprised a 2006 is still showing young, but good things are to come hopefully.
This inspired me to open up my last (I think) bottle of the '94 this past weekend.
Color was a medium red with some transparency but no other signs of age. Aromas of currant, blackberry, blueberry, and some anise. Palate was red fruited with currant, sage, and some licorice on a medium finish. This was fully integrated and drinking very well. A delicious wine and very happy to have followed it over the years. Drink or hold.
Cheers,
fred
Had a 1991 (don’t recall which specific wine) at the winery two years ago. Remarkably fresh and an outstanding wine! Complex similar to a well aged Bordeaux with rich body and an energetic palate. Not past prime at all, these wines age so well!