The 1997 winter season was short, followed by an early spring and a dry summer, resulting in a generous crop that was high in quality and yield. The 1997 Collection Cabernet's aromas are ripe berries, cherry, blackberry and huckleberry with hints of licorice and plum. Toasty oak and mocha flavors evolve in the glass. The body is full with moderate tannins and a smooth finish. This elegant and full-bodied wine will go well with beef, lamb, pork, game and grilled vegetables. This wine represents our unique microclimate and soils on Mt. Veeder. It is a blend of over 100 lots of wine from our 90 estate vineyard blocks. The blocks represent diverse aspects of the mountain and various elevations. All of these factors together build this powerful and distinctive wine.