Inglenook Rubicon (bin soiled labels) 1997

The experience of tasting Rubicon begins with its visual beauty of its dense, saturated ruby-purple color that is nearly opaque. Always a sign of ripeness and concentration, the color of Rubicon is powerful and dark and tells of the structure and seriousness of the wine. The aroma of the 1996 Rubicon is the classic estate Cabernet Sauvignon character of the black cherries and violets. Though aged in 60% new French oak barrels, the contribution of the wood is amazingly integrated and supports the fruit aromas rather than making them. On the palate, the sweet core of red cherries and dark raspberries is the property icon and a character found in all vintages of Rubicon. The lengthy finish is true to the late September harvest, which produced impressive, powerful tannins that will soften with time in the bottle.