Colgin Cellars - Napa Valley IX Estate 2009

Grape

Cabernet Sauvignon (69%), Merlot (15%), Cabernet Franc (10%), Petit Verdot (6%)

Tasting notes

The 2009 vintage is replete with earthy aromatics and dark fruit flavors. Black licorice aromatics give way to gravel, soapstone, and talc rounding out the nose. The aromatic purity is striking and enticing. More memorable than the nose is the texture of the wine on the palate. The tannins are silky and full-bodied, and fresh acidity brings a delectable quality to the wine. The 2009 "IX Estate" can last twenty years or more.

Expert Ratings

99 points James Suckling

'Phenomenal aromas and flavors of pure fruit with stones and rock. Turns to mint and eucalyptus. Full body, with powerful yet polished tannins. Creamy and fresh. Changes continually. The finish goes on for minutes Savory. And juicy. '

97 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

' Composed of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot, the 2009 IX Estate exhibits a flowery bouquet with notes of subtle smoke, blackberries, black currants, kirsch and baking spices. Rich, deep and full-bodied, this voluptuous, sensational blend boasts an inky/purple color. (RP) '

96 points Vinous

' Deep aromas of dark fruits, spices, smoky oak and flowers, plus a whiff of game. Utterly plush and mouth filling but not at all heavy, showing serious thickness and high-altitude density to its sweet blue and black fruit, spice and chocolate flavors. And yet this wine's floral element gives it an almost light touch, if that's possible. Some subtle soil tones reminded me of the outstanding Syrah from this site on Pritchard Hill. Finishes with substantial but noble tannins and terrific length. (ST) '

94 points Wine Spectator

' A muscle-bound effort, tight, dense and chewy, with tar, blackberry, cedar and tobacco flavors. Ends with a pleasant wall of tannins and a persistent push of flavors. (JL)'

About the Winery

Colgin Cellars produces exquisitely handcrafted red wines using only the finest neo-classical winemaking methods in concert with small yields, gentle handling, attentive sorting and meticulous blending.

The Colgin winery, completed in 2002, is located at the northern end of IX Estate in the Pritchard Hill area of St. Helena, California. The state-of-the-art winery provides an inspiring view of Lake Hennessey.