The 2011 Promontory exhibits a dense purple color, more density and richness than I predicted from barrel, a big, sweet nose of licorice, scorched earth, espresso bean, camphor and sweet blackcurrants and blackberries. A Graves-like volcanic character is also present. Rich, full-bodied and in need of 3-4 years of cellaring (unusual for a 2011), it should drink well for two decades or more.

This was a cool vintage and a difficult harvest, and it does show in the final wine. The nose is fresh and pure, with lifted and intense blackcurrant fruit. There's freshness on the attack too, and the palate as a whole shows drive and force rather than flesh and breadth. It's very concentrated but not heavy, although the alcohol is perceptible as the fruit character is lean by Napa standards. The finish is long, subtle, and almost citric.