The winner at Saturday’s tasting was the  Clark-Claudon limited production 2005 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. The Clark-Claudon Cabernet boasts a soaring nose of cassis and mineral notes with great concentration and fine tannins, very elegant and extremely pleasurable to drink. Just coming into its own it still needs breathing time and will age for another 5-10 years effortlessly in good storage, definitely a vin de garde and nearly sold.

The Four Vines “Biker” Zinfandel, brand new release though not the leader of the pack was the 1st runner up last week, from my past experience and the name I expected “The Wild Ones” but got the mild one. It is very silky and smooth right away with deep but abiding berry flavors and just the right spice notes. Very nicely balanced and not terribly alcoholic by Zin standards (just over 14%). This was a big crowd pleaser and the will be gone soon especially if it pulls its usual 90-something point score after Parke and Spectator crack it open. We had a great tasting with great wines from top to bottom and perfect weather.