The 2009 CV is the latest offering of this small volume bottling. In 2008 this wine normally Van Zeller's biggest and richest showed a slightly different type of balance. A creature of its vintage it had some restraint a crisp austerity and steely component. The restrained vintage conditions seemed to meld well with its normally rich style producing something special well delineated and focused yet not at all thin or wimpy. In mid-palate depth it is startlingly elegant not a whole lot different than the 2008. There is some evidence of restraint. One place where the vintage may be noticeable however is the alcohol level. It is predictably intense and tight on the finish early on; I'd expect nothing less. There is a lot of power and it has its fair share of tannins lurking underneath. Yet it did come around fairly nicely in that regard and should continue to do so. It actually has some finesse too. Drink 2013-2023. 90+