Many years ago my good friend brought this bottle from Napa and gave it to me, I suppose in the mid-80s. It has slept ever since, although traveled many thousands of miles by truck and container through our moves. The level and color were good (mid neck) but the cork crumbly and I wished for a better worm on the screw. With a fine salt marsh gigot we toasted our patron and distant friend Tom, (who now lives in Napa and works in the biz).
Discreet nose of plums, mushrooms, leather. In the mouth a classic claret style, leather, slight mint and coconut over deep cherry fruit that grew as the wine opened in the decanter. Interestingly almost no dregs, clearly filtered.
A fine old gentleman, perhaps a few years past middle age, but with great class, and no dotard. All the more enjoyable for its source and the memories it brought back of other days. Thanks again, Tom!
-E