1998 Tobin James Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve

[Innkeeper]

1998 Tobin James, James Gang Reserve, Paso Robles, Cabernet Sauvignon ($28). But less with the Spring '01 James Gang shipment. Alcohol 13.8%. After resting quietly for three years, though they said it was ready on release, we popped it tonight. Decanted it before we even set the fire (about an hour before dinner).

All went well. The wine gave classic varietal cabernet fruit and cassis on the nose and upfront. The guts of it crossing the palate held up the two inch thick loin steak grilled with mesquite smoke. It all was like heaven in the mouth. Having more with salad and freshly made Stilton cheese dressing, it felt like it was having a ball. Finally it provided a three and half alarm finish. Well worth the wait. It you still have one, pop it!

[This message has been edited by Innkeeper (edited 05-30-2004).]