The two offerings of Cabernet Sauvignon tasted much more successful than the Merlots. The 1986 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is similar in style to the regular bottling, with more noticeable new oak in the nose, as well as copious quantities of smoke, cedar, spice, and sweet, jammy blackcurrant fruit. Full-bodied, classy, and well-balanced, with outstanding richness, well-integrated acidity and tannin, and a long, youthful finish, this wine is just beginning to open up and reveal its full potential. It should drink well for another 10-12 years.
The tasting notes for this section are from two single blind tastings, one conducted in May, 1996, in California, and the other in June, 1996, in Baltimore.