Like the NCAA tourney, an eclectic mix not normally seen together - some were big and powerful, some were legends, some unknowns, some over-achievers, and a cinderella.
2007 cc: Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Second time tasted and consistent notes - a bit tart and hard on initial opening - much softer and more approachable the next day. Full bodied - dark garnet color. Complex, slightly restrained blackberry fruits, spice, layer of cassis, hint of cedar with tones of mocha on a full lingering soft tannin finish.
RM 91 points.
Muddy Water Waipara, New Zealand Pinot Noir 2008
RM 88 points.
Marquis Philips Southeast Australia Shiraz 2000
In a blind tasting this would pass as a southern Rhone - Aromas and taste of firm forward rich very ripe black raspberry, almost raisin and fig give way to intense pepper and anise finish.
RM 87 points
Piedra Hill Vineyard Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Dark garnet color - medium-full bodied. Full forward ripe black fruits - black berry, black cherry, almost raisiny, hints of anise and a layer of spice on a full firm lingering tannin finish.
RM 89 points.
From the base of the rear of Howell Mountain. Medium bodied - dark garnet color - black licorice, anise, leather and a hint of smoke overtake the black berry and black cherry fruits and spice. RM 86 points.
Interesting selection brought by Bill & Beth - namesake to Beth's Pope family heritage with a connection in her past somewhere. Notably, she also was championing the support for the Kentucky Wildcats who advanced to the Final Four over Bill's favored North Carolina Tar Heels.
Linda and I, and Bob are all supporting our Hoosier heritage favorite Butler Bulldogs with Gloria lending encouraging support to keep family unity. Onward!