The unfiltered/unfined 1998 Jericho Canyon Vineyard (2850 cases) spent 16 months in French oak. A sensational effort it is one of the stars of this challenging vintage. The opaque black/plum color is accompanied by aromas and flavors reminiscent of a blend of Cheval Blanc and La Mission-Haut-Brion from an overripe vintage. Notes of plums cassis blackberries espresso Asian spices licorice cedar and tapenade make an appearance in both the aromas and flavors. Extremely full-bodied with sweet tannin an opulent/voluptuous texture full body brilliant purity and low acidity this wine represents a synthesis in style between an exotic right bank Bordeaux and a California Cabernet. Having achieved 14.2% alcohol naturally it is a blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon 11% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc from a vineyard in northern Napa Valley (the Rudd estate vineyards have not yet come into production).

A bold rich and creamy-textured wine with coffee currant black cherry herb olive and cedar. Deftly balanced long and intricate on the finish. New from the owner of the former Girard winery. Drink now through 2007. 2800 cases made. –JL