1993 La Jota Howell & 1999 Ristow Quinta de Pedras

[winoweenie]

These were the featured numbers at BRW & my Thurs Prayer meeting. Started with the 99 and this is a stunning wine from this fine vineyard. No browning, ruby fringing on purple. Nose gives red and purple fruits, tons of sweet spices, and that lovely dust from Rutherford. Silky entry, big weighty center and a 4+ lapper finish that is shut down by a wave of supple tannins that needs another 3-5 to resolve. 91/90 48 by the box. 14.5% alc.( Too bad the Ristows decided in the mid-00s' to reire and only seel grapes instead of convering to this marvy juice) The 93 La Jota was definately on TTOIG! Again deep ruby verging on purple with NO sign of browning.
Nose showed lovely mature red sweet cherries, soft lovely plums, cinnamon, a tad of roses and just enough of the bramble that identified it as the hills Howell Mtn. Has to be one of the top 5 Napa cabs from this spotty vintage. Naturally I've buyers remorse for not buying multiple cases of this bugger. Caresses the mouth like a great Creme Brulee and goes down just as easily. Great Bottle. 95/93. 45 by the box. 13.5 % alc. WW ( It's a shame the Ristows decided in the mid-00s' to quit making this killer juice. They sell their fruit and have retired.)

[This message has been edited by winoweenie (edited 04-30-2009).]