Colgin - IX Estate Proprietary Red 2005

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "Lastly, the 2005 Proprietary Red IX Estate, from one of the most strikingly beautiful vineyards in all of Napa, high on Pritchard Hill overlooking Lake Hennessey, is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Inky purple with a provocative and profound bouquet of graphite, white flowers, cassis and blackberry as well as hints of coffee and chocolate, this full-bodied classic has perfect balance, undeniable purity and a long finish. Drink it now and over the next 20 years." (Robert M. Parker, Jr.)

WINE ENTHUSIAST: "This Bordeaux blend is similar to Colgin's Cariad bottling, but the grapes are from the winery's estate vineyard, high up on Pritchard Hill, ranging in elevation from 1,100–1,300 feet. A distinct note of violets and Provençal herbs erupts from the glass, supported by fruiter ones of cherries, red and black currants, dark chocolate, caramelized oak and cedar. What is so masterful about the wine is its complex structure. The tannins are fine as can be, offering just the right quality of briskness, and balanced with vital acidity. Tasted alongside Colgin's other 2005 wines, the IX Estate surpasses them all in sheer power and depth."

THE WINE CELLAR INSIDER: "Smoke, vanilla, espresso bean, earth, blackberry jam, blueberry and cherry preserves create the wine aromatics. In the mouth, the wine is rich, silky, deep and plush. Some tannin remains, I’d give it another year or two for the tannins to fully integrate."

WINE SPECTATOR: "Serves up a rich, complex array of flavors, built around cedary oak, ripe currant and black cherry, with hints of leather and spice. Ends with a long, intricate finish that pulls all the flavors together. Firmly tannic. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. 1,500 cases made."