Colgin - IX Estate Proprietary Red 2008

JAMES SUCKLING: "Incredible nose of mint, spices and dark fruits. Forest floor. Then turns to Indian tea. Roses too. Full-bodied, with very fine tannins and lovely fruit. Soft and silky fruits. Amazing backbone of tannins. This reminds me of a great modern vintage of Margaux -- but with that Napa shine. 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot."

WINE ENTHUSIAST: "This is an absolutely beautiful wine to drink now, but the richness comes at the price of considerable alcohol. The color is dark and impenetrable, the aromas huge in Cabernet-inspired blackberries and black currants, with a touch of something herbal and also a stony minerality. There's also a fascinating peatiness, like an Islay Scotch. It really opens up in the glass, becoming ever more complex. It's great Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, but that high alcohol may limit its ageability."

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "The opaque purple-hued 2008 IX Proprietary Red, a blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and the balance Petit Verdot (also slightly modified from last year), reveals notes of espresso roast, blueberries, black currants and lead pencil shavings. The wine reveals superb concentration and richness as well as a structured mouthfeel. It begs for 4-5 years of cellaring and should drink well for 20-30+ years."

WINE SPECTATOR: "Firm, dense and earthy, with a chewy edge to the gamy tobacco leaf, dried currant, roasted herb and forest floor notes. Full-bodied and notably tannic, yet altogether very complex, stylish and muscular. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2012 through 2022. 1,100 cases made."