Chateau St. Jean Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

Black cherries, chocolate, ripe plums, violets and sweet vanilla oak notes jump from the nose of this Cabernet. On the palate, layers of ripe blackberries, roasty tobacco, cedar, mint and spice surround richly textured supple tannins that lead into a coffee and smoky oak finish.

This wine consists of Cabernet Sauvignon blended with Merlot (3%) and Cabernet Franc (2%). Each component was aged separately for 18 months in French and American oak before blending. Once the barrel selection was made, the wine was assembled and bottled.

"Dry and balanced, it shows the deft hand of the winery, a soft delicious Bordeaux-style wine with lushly ripe cherry, cassis and spicy oak flavors, and a long, smooth, elegant finish."
Wine Enthusiast Editor91 points