The Heitz Cellar, Napa Valley Bella Oaks Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon
1977, bottle #45222 of 47820 bottles and 1200 magnums, was bottled Aug. 11, 1981, and has 13 1/2 % alcohol. It has been stored properly since shortly after release. There were no cork or other issues, and the fill was still in the low neck. The cork could not be removed with a corkscrew for the sides of the cork nearly seemed to be glued to the bottle. A butler's friend went in with no problems, and twisting it a bit then allowed the cork to be extracted in one piece.This wine has been mature for several years, but it is holding very well. It is still a big, dark wine with a bit of age now showing around the rim. The dark fruit is quite intense, and there is a mixed spice character. The tannins are resolved and now fairly soft. There is ample acid. Although still a big wine, the balance is now very good and not over-the-top and nearly port-like as were some California CSs from the 70s. At this stage, I like it better than the 1976 Martha's vineyard. Unfortunately I have only one more bottle left.