How much fun collectors will have comparing the 2007 and 2008 La Joies over the next three decades. A blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon 14% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc Petit Verdot and Malbec (48% from Alexander Valley Mountain Estate 34% from Chalk Hill and 18% from Knight's Valley) the 2008 has similar technical numbers to the 2007 (a pH of 3.68 and 14.4% alcohol). Wonderful notes of roasted herbs asphalt black truffles blackberries cassis camphor and subtle oak are present in the majestic aromatics. In the mouth the wine is extraordinarily concentrated pure and dense with amazing length. It is another 30-40 year wine that confirms the confidence the late Jess Jackson had in both his vineyard sources and his winemaker Pierre Seillan. Robert Parker Jr.