Such a seductive nose, pronounced aromas of blackcurrant, blackberries and dark cherries, but also black olives and sweet spices. The palate is full bodied, voluptuous and lively. It has great depth. Notes of raspberry are also coming through with vanilla notes. The finish is very long and elegant. Lingering acidity and silky tannins makes you want to savour and pour another glass. Silver Oak Alexandra Valley 2013 is a serious wine. Great balance of power and elegance. It will develop into a superb Napa until at least 2030+ - November 2017

Structure is the hallmark of this spicy, earthy wine with bright, sweet raspberry fruit flavours and rustic cedary and herbal notes. It’s loaded with pleasure and the kind of concentration that promises a fairly long life. 2013 was a very dry year, with no heat waves and a handful of 100-degree days.

Aged in American oak. Bright crimson. Light, sweet and oaky on the nose and the slightly rustic tannins dry out the palate rather. Hums along but it's not exactly mellow in terms of texture, however sweet the fruit. It reminds me a little of rioja in its sweet oakiness. (JR)