A big step up in quality for Staglin with tiers of dense chewy richly flavored currant earth blackberry cherry mineral and mocha. Finishes with a long intense plush aftertaste. Shows some heat and rough tannins and oak but nothing short-term cellaring won't resolve. Best from 2005 through 2015. 2582 cases made.

The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep ruby/purple color notes of graphite and black currants in an elegant Bordeaux-styled format medium body outstanding purity and an angular dry austere finish despite its beautiful aromatics and palate. It is less impressive than it was from barrel. It was neither fined nor filtered yet it appears to have shut down. Whether it re-emerges is a matter of conjecture. It is one of those perplexing Cabernets with a low ninety point bouquet but tough-textured flavors. Patience will be required. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2017.