The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Rock Terrace is gorgeous today. Cedar, spice, tobacco, menthol and mocha lend tons of aromatic breadth. The tannins have softened, making this quite approachable today. Star anise, cinnamon and orange peel lend an exotic flair. This is an especially aromatic, mid-weight vintage for the Volcanic Hill. -- Antonio Galloni

Red Rock Terrace, on a north-facing slope of 38°, is cooler than Volcanic Hill, and slightly warmer than Gravelly Meadow. It's the most immediately appealing of the three Diamond Creek wines in 2003. If I were to add points for terroir character, this would score even higher, as my notes from the blind tasting indicate a ferrous, iron-oxide edge to the tannin (the aspect of the soil that accounts for its distinctive color). The grip of those tannins creates a dry succulence, balancing wild blueberry fruit with lovely intensity. Powerfully mineral, the finish lasts with a tremendous elegance.

Classic components of cassis, loamy earth, pencil lead and nicely balanced oak spice come together in the deep aromas and well-extracted flavors of this solidly varietal bottling, and, while fairly tannic and rather gruff on the palate, the wine is always directed by ample fruit. A serious Cabernet that will both demand and reward genuine patience, it is clearly one for long-term keeping, of ten or more years.