1992 Diamond Creek Cabernet Gravelly Meadow MAGNUM

(86-89 points) After the less than inspirational efforts Diamond Creek has produced since 1985, the three cuvees of 1992 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibit better richness, excellent purity, and deep ruby/purple colors. Nevertheless, for longtime fans of Diamond Creek Cabernet, weaned on the blockbuster, rich, occasionally rustic, but always individualistic and distinctive as well as super-complex and concentrated wines of the seventies and early eighties, there has clearly been a radical change in style. Although the wines may be more elegant and consistent, they are also less interesting. That is not to say they are not good, but anyone who has tasted Diamond Creek Cabernet Sauvignon from 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, or 1978, as well as vintages through the early eighties, knows that when mature these wines are riveting examples of California Cabernet Sauvignon. There now appears to be an emphasis on a more sculptured, elegant style. Wine Advocate # 92 Apr 1994