The superb 2006 Gemstone Proprietary Red (an 890-case blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot) is from the cooler Oakville / Yountville sector of Napa. It exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as a beautiful bouquet of subtle new oak interwoven with black currants smoke licorice and a hint of spring flowers. The wine is full-bodied with excellent density admirable balance and fine purity a hallmark of this estate. It should drink nicely for two decades.

Savory herb dried currant black licorice and mineral are tight full-bodied well-proportioned and structured. This ends with firm tannins so it's best to cellar short term into 2010. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best from 2011 through 2016. 850 cases made. -JL