Estancia Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles Keyes Canyon Ranch 2008

Appearance: Bright and clear with a deep, almost opaque, garnet color core with blueish highlights moving out to a narrow(+) dark pink rim.

Nose: The aroma is clean with pronounced black cherry with a hint of vanilla and green herbs (maybe mint). On the palate the wine is dry with a medium(-) body, medium acidy and a low(+) level of tannins. There is a low intensity of fruit flavor that seems somewhat evasive (might be red fruit or raw red-currant). There is no indication of an alcohol burn (13.5ABV).

Finish/Length: The finish is clean and short(+) with a flavor similar to above with a hint of vanilla.

Conclusion: I question the herbaceousness I dedected on the nose and wonder if it is due to the picking of unripe grapes or some other source.

Producer Tasting Note: Deep garnet with crimson hints. Aromas are ripe, dark black chery, chocolate and currant complement the spicy, peppery notes and hints of textured sweet oak. The flavors are jammy dark fruit accompanied by soft velvety tannins, followed with a long rich finish.