WA 94 "Cliff Lede’s 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry is showing beautifully today. It, too, is rather statuesque and towering. Layers of dark red fruit, flowers, crushed rocks and cloves inform this powerful wine. The 2009 has plenty of sweetness and depth, but it needs a few years for the tannins to soften. Regardless, it is striking. Hints of mocha, licorice and incense add complexity on the finish. The 2009 is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 9% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Malbec. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. This is a strong and consistent range from Cliff Lede and his team. In addition to these wines, I also tasted a few 2011 component wines that were promising. Lede is keeping his 2011s separate for a longer time than normal before blending to see how they develop, a common choice in this very challenging vintage. (AG)" (12/2012)