2003 Oriel “Midnight Rambler” Cabernet

Had this wine with Paul about 2 months ago. Midnight Rambler is named for after the winemaker who walks the vineyards the night of the harvest, checking the grapes for perfect ripeness. Made by Winemaker Gerry Rowland; Low-yielding clay, loam and gravel soils from the famed Rutherford bench north of Oakville, California.

Wine Details:

Vintage: 2003

Varietal: Cabernet

Appelation: Oakville, Napa Valley

Notes: Cold soaked and extended maceration. Aged in 50% French and 50% American oak barrels (70% new). 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Picked: October 20, 2003.

Nice nose, Ruby color, dust. On the palate cherry, plum, and spice. The tannins are very harsh on the tip of the palate, and the finish is short and abbreviated. I think a little more time in the botle will settle the tannins down.

Rating: 86 JH