2010 Vineyard 29 Estate Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

(94 Points  --  Wine Advocate)

The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon 29 Estate is quite a bit silkier from a textural perspective than the Aida Cabernet Sauvignon. Black cherries, plums, violets, new leather and tar are woven together nicely. This, too, is sumptuous, powerful and intense. Hints of chocolate, mocha and espresso are layered into the finish. Judging by the neighborhood, I would think this could be a meaningfully more polished wine, but the 2010 is really more about obvious opulence rather than nuance. The blend is 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. (AG)   Review Date: 12/2012