Superripe aromas of black cherry and Cuba n tobacco. Lush and seamless, with a sappy, liqueur-like sweetness of dark raspberry and blackberry fruit. Offers an uncanny combination of sheer density and inner-palate energy. The finishing flavors go on and on. I found this sample at least as supple and sweet as the young 2003 Harlan Estate, but these wines still have another nine months or so in barrel. Winemaker Levy describes the St. Eden cuvee as more powerful and concentrated than Melbury, with more finesse and focus than the Vecina.

There is plenty to admire in the 2003 St. Eden. Sensual and voluptuous in the glass, the 2003 possesses striking intensity and terrific overall balance. Mocha, smoke, tobacco, black stone fruit and leather notes are pushed forward in this sumptuous, pliant Cabernet Sauvignon. Although not especially complex, the 2003 is quite tasty.

The 2003 St. Eden comes from an 11-acre rocky knoll on the northern side of the Oakville Crossroad that consists of pure red soils. It is the most evolved and forward of these 2003 Bond wines. Lots of cedar, chocolate, roasted herb, lavender and spice box notes emerge from this complex Pauillac-like effort. Medium to full-bodied and fully mature, it is more evolved than its siblings, revealing sweet tannin as well as a spicy, earthy finish. Owners are advised to drink it over the next decade. The single vineyard wines represent Bill Harlan’s concept of offering single vineyard, micro-climate/terroir-based wines from distinctive sectors of Napa Valley. Tel. (707) 944-1441