Chris Carpenter has done a fabulous job with the 2010 Cardinale. The wine boasts a huge center of fruit backed up by equally firm imposing tannins. Layers of dark red fruit mocha cinnamon and new leather explode from the glass. The 2010 is a huge Cardinale endowed with superb depth power and richness. At the same time there is a mid-palate generosity and pliancy that leads me to believe the 2010 will drink beautifully once the tannins soften a touch. Hints of tar graphite and iron add personality on the full-bodied intense finish. The 2010 is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot predominantly from mountain sites. The ability to blend fruit from various top-notch sites works great here. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2030. -Antonio Galloni

This is marked by appealing cream- and mocha-laced flavors, with a dash of espresso woven into the dense dried berry, loamy earth, cedar and tobacco notes. Maintains a tight focus and gains on the finish, though the tannins are dry and gripping. Best from 2014 through 2026. – JL