The dark ruby-colored 1995 Quilceda Creek contains 12% Merlot a high figure for this Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated wine. It reveals an expressive ripe and violet-laced nose as well as wonderful layers of blackberry red currant cassis and floral flavors. This medium-to-full-bodied elegant and refined wine is intensely concentrated and flavorful but certainly not on the level of the blockbuster 1994. In its youth this silky-textured wine is quintessential Golitzen polished precise focused and gracefully exhibiting highly-defined sweet fruit. It is certainly ageworthy but I predict it will attain its peak of maturity earlier than its older sibling. Projected maturity: 2003-2010+. Bravo!

Firm and chewy a solid wine with appealing blackberry plum and currant flavors poking through the thin veil of tannins draped over the finish. Flavors linger impressively. Best from 2000 through 2005. 2250 cases made. –HS