The 2008 Claret continues the fruit-driven, soft, velvety textured, plush style of previous vintages. This Cabernet Sauvignon-based effort is an attractive, consumer-friendly wine to enjoy over the next decade.

Pure, rich, structured and full-bodied, with an expansive core of ripe plum, currant, tobacco, sage and cedar flavors, tilting toward tar on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2019.

Deep, bright ruby. Cherry-vanilla, cassis, anise and fruitcake on the nose, with suave floral lift. Shows good juicy cut and energy to its flavors of dark berries, bitter cherry and mocha. Round and seamles wine, with very good finishing breadth and a persistent note of candied dark fruits. This is already delicious.

The 2008 Claret continues the fruit-driven, soft, velvety textured, plush style of previous vintages. This Cabernet Sauvignon-based effort is an attractive, consumer-friendly wine to enjoy over the next decade.

Medium-dark ruby; attractive, earthy, black cherry and blackberry fruit aroma with hints of cassis, tar, and graphite; full body; rich, fleshy, supple, cassis and dark berry fruit flavors with cedary notes and a bit coarse on the finish; medium-full to full tannin; lingering aftertaste. Approachable now though best to age for another year or two. Very highly recommended.