Poured into a decanter about an hour prior to service; enjoyed over period that lasted a few hours. The 2008 pours a deep ruby color with a near opaque core; medium+ viscosity with moderate staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with mostly fresh, tart, vibrant red fruits: red brambles, red currants and tart cherries with some pyrazines, tobacco, some cool herbs, dry earth and gentle warm spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and bordering high acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium+ and the body is perceptibly leaner than both the 1988 and the 2018. That being said, I love its transparency because it is clearly telling part of the story of the vintage. The frost was merciless in Dry Creek in the spring of 2008. So far, the evolution seems slow to me. Drink now with a decant but considering the structure, this has a long life ahead. If I had another bottle, I would open my next after 2028. — 9 days ago
my ideal bottle! — 15 hours ago
This is one of my go to wines because it’s classic and goes well with many things. More in the oakier side and slightly heavy but I love the buttery flavor. — 9 days ago
Showing dark ruby. Ton of structure. Overpowered by tannin on first open. Will revisit rating in a few hours. — a month ago
Katie from My wine club — 3 days ago
On the nose red cherry, raspberry, herb, smoke - on the palate same but maybe a little plum - smooth tannins. Very good — 13 hours ago
Scott@Mister A’s-San Diego
2009 vintage. Golden color. Heavy body (still!!). Unctuous with a corresponding amount of acidity to keep the proceedings in check for the next decade. This ain’t going nowhere. About as far from my “jam” as is possible but still other-worldly. 5.1.24. — 9 days ago