As a group, the very good 2011 Cabernets from Janzen are far from a delicate bunch and all convey plenty of fruity richness and depth, but this one from Cloudy's Vineyard moves to very head of the class by dint of its exemplary structure and fine balance. Rather than roaring out of the glass, it slowly evolves and unfolds to reveal layer upon layer of cassis, creamy oak, loamy soils and subtle accents of dried herbs and spice, and, if still a bit tight, it is as potent and impressively extracted as it is well proportioned. Hide it away in a quiet corner of the cellar for no fewer than seven or eight years, but please know that it has all the pieces in all the right places to grow ever grander for another decade or two.

Janzen made a very good 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Cloudy’s Vineyard, which comes from the Dutch Henry Canyon sector of Napa Valley. This dark ruby/purple-tinged wine shows more density and richness than the Beckstoffer Vineyards as well as more blackcurrant, cedarwood and licorice notes. Drink it over the next 7-8 years, as none of these 2011s are meant for long-term aging. - Robert M. Parker, Jr.