How old is too old???

[Miles Raymond]

I was just in a local store and came across a bottle of 1999 Smoking Loon Cabernet Sauvignon. I hear about how certain vintages peak. I just wonder in this case old is too old?

[This message has been edited by Miles Raymond (edited 02-28-2005).]

[tw]

Well cabs are one of the top reds for aging. I would say a cab will peak at about 5-10 years depending on producer and some more expensive bottles longer than that even.

[wineguruchgo]

Since this brand is made for mass consumption I would say that it's probably at it's peak right now. If it's a good deal buy a bottle to see and then buy more if you like it. It will probably last for a while if you buy quantity. This certainly isn't a wine that you will be opening in 10 years.

[tw]

by 5-10 years i meant from the label which puts it at about 6 years, Perfect!

[j_amonett]

I have a 14 yr old cabernet sauvignon. it is crap or good to drink?

[winoweenie]

Hi J and welcome to the board.Some cabs are still smokin' while others have gone to the big vinegar barrel in the sky. Name please. WW

[j_amonett]

I actually have two older bottles. One is a '91 Della Scala Chianti and the other is a '91 Maddalena Vineyard out of Sonoma County. Please let me know. Thanks.

[winoweenie]

Well J you've stumped me on both bottles. I know zilch about Chiani and have not been acquainted with Madalenna. One thing that's in your favor is that 91 was a very good vintage for Sonoma. Best bet is to pop the corks on them dudes and keep your eyes crossed. WW

[wineguruchgo]

I'm going to guess that the Chianti is probably on it's way out, if not gone already. Chianti is meant to be consummed young.

As for the Maddalena, I'm going to guess that it's probably ok, but I don't think it's Sonoma fruit.

As said by Winoweenie, I would pop those puppies and see what's inside them.

For aging there are a few factors that are key: temperature, light, humidity and the grape. Not all grapes are indended to age.

[j_amonett]

Thank you two very much for the info.