Girard Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

"Where Girard’s estate Cab is beautiful now, their Diamond Mountain bottling is one for the cellar. Veteran winemaker Marco DiGiulio has applied his considerable experience, with classic results. The wine is marked by firm tannins that make it astringent and sticky. But underneath all that is an explosion of currant, plum, licorice, chocolate and spicy curry flavor that dazzles. Should easily age for a long time in a proper cellar. Production was a paltry 325 cases, and worth the search. "

95 Points

Wine Enthusiast

"Slightly more earthy, displaying hints of burning embers, creme de cassis, new saddle leather, plums, and spice, is the full-bodied, powerful, opaque ruby/purple-tinged 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain. With loads of potential, with 2-3 years of cellaring, it should turn out to be as good as the Pritchard Hill. When Leslie Rudd purchased the old Girard estate, resurrected a new winery, and replanted much of the Oakville vineyards, the Rudd Estate became increasingly well-known, and the name “Girard” was seemingly forgotten. However, these Girard cuvees beg for attention."

92 Points

The Wine Advocate

"Offers a smooth, rich core of earthy currant, wild berry, mineral and sage, along with the structure, focus, concentration and depth to merit your attention. Ends with a long, layered, complex finish. Best from 2011 through 2018. 325 cases made."

91 Points

Wine Spectator