The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Annum is gorgeous in this vintage. The wine’s typical super-ripe personality is restrained, but that keeps the aromas and flavors very nicely focused throughout. At the same time, there is plenty of density and richness in the glass. I especially like the way the 2011 fleshes out on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2026.

 

The spectacular 2001 Diamond Mountain District Young Vines Proprietary Red is a 775-case blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 12% Petit Verdot, and 7% Cabernet Franc. Ramey utilized about 40% new oak on this cuvee, and 50% on the Jericho Canyon, well under the levels most top California Cabernet proprietors use. This fabulous 2001's inky/purple color is followed by a gorgeous bouquet of creosote intermixed with cedar wood, black currants, roasted espresso bean, chocolate, and creme de cassis. Classic Bordeaux in structure, but richer and thicker, this medium to full-bodied Cabernet possesses tremendous density, structure, and purity as well as a remarkably long finish. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020. Get on the bandwagon as David Ramey is on top of his game.

The stunning 2001 Diamond Mountain District Young Vines reveals aromas and flavors of scorched earth, creosote, black currants, chocolate, and espresso presented in a long, opulent, full-bodied, moderately tannic format. It should hit its peak in 3-4 years, and last for 12-15.

Opaque medium ruby. Sappy aromas of black raspberry, mocha and exotic spices. Much denser and sweeter than the Claret, with superb mouth feel. Flavors of black raspberry, currant and chocolate offer a penetrating sweetness. A huge wine with a boatload of tannins and a finishing flavor of bitter chocolate. "The young-vines tannins are not yet noble," admits Ramey.

Saturated ruby-red. Superripe aromas of cassis, blackberry and chocolate mint. Considerably broader and sweeter than the Claret, with complex flavors of black raspberry, black cherry, violet, espresso, chocolate and menthol really spreading out to cover the palate. Finishes with huge, toothcoating, well-buffered tannins and excellent persistence.