The Young Ridge library extravaganza weekend of stunning Cabernets would not be complete without this ‘tastes a decade younger than the 2003’ 2004. Drinking freshly and energetically, making this a unique opportunity to enjoy a perfectly cellared, perfectly aged Napa Cabernet Sauvignon frozen in time.

By sight, this is a fine wine in the glass with semi-transparent garnet coloration consistent through to the edge, with no signs of brown at the meniscus. The nose is fresh and vibrant, quite remarkable for a 2004, with notes of cola, hibiscus, amaretto, cranberry, and wild plum. The flavors exhibit the complexity that can only be derived from extended aging. They involve a nuttiness best described as pecan and walnut, while it still offers very fresh fruit cherry and plum. There is also a savory herbaceous quality of white sage and thyme. Young Ridge demonstrates again that it can construct wines intended for age. We wouldn’t be afraid to lay this down for several more years and still discover it full of life, in addition to the layered complexity it exhibits. Super smooth. This wine has been waiting more than a decade for you to enjoy it with your dinner. Give it its due and serve filet mignon.

Winemaker Julianna Beckmann Gosling started her winemaking career as an intern at Robert Mondavi Winery, and after graduating from the University of California at Davis, she worked at both Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards. Today Julianna oversees all aspects of the winemaking process, shepherding the wines through from vineyard to bottle.

You won’t find a better value on such a perfectly aged Napa Cabernet. Today’s wine will delight and impress anyone that you share it with. Impress your friends when you show up with this normally expensive beauty.