On Saturday, we had our annual Bacchanlia for our research groups. Although not typically a fine wine event, in addition to the Chandon sparklers and QPR wines I provided ('08 Giesen SB, '08 Brancott SB, '06 Clean Slate Riesling, '06 Allram GV, '07 Perrin Reserve CdR, '07 d'Andezon CdR, '07 Cono Sur PN, '06 Sangre de Toro), one of Jean's students brought a wine made by her family:
2004 Locatelli Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles nose: cassis, slightly oaky, coffee, hint of bell peppers palate: full body, rich mouthfeel, fine grained tannins, balanced acidity
Very nice for a CalCab with plenty of secondary characterists. Very restrained use of oak and ripe (but not overripe) fruit make for a very pleasant and atypical present-day Cabernet. Incredible QPR! (it was a gift)
Mark Lipton