1996 Hess Collection

[winoweenie]

Thot sure I'd posted on this big sucker before when it took your tongue, tied it in a bow, then turned the whole inside of your mouth Hoagy (deep purple). Well, the beast has turned civil. Still deep ruby, the currant, spices, and flowers hit the schnozz at uncorking. All comes over on the palate plus a tad of bakers cocoa. Solid entry, weighty middle, and a 4+ lapper finish. This wine has gone from the very good to outstanding catagory. 90/92. 28 by the box. 13% alc. WW

[robr]

WW,

I just bought a bottle of the 2001 Hess Select. Is it approachable now, or should I let it lie?

I have to admit, reading your Cabernet postings has propelled me into a bit of a Cabernet binge lately. The more I taste, the better I like this grape.

Bern

[winoweenie]

Bern the Hess Select is from the younger vines so are approachable on release. I normally buy a box of both the Select and the Collection. Drink the Select on release and give the selection at least 5 before the 1st opening and go from there. VERY reliable producer. WW

[robr]

I just poured a glass from the bottle of 2001 Select. you're right. A solid Cabernet. Very tannic, but balanced with lots of fruity cherry and berry flavors, with just a hint of oak. This one's a winner!

I think I'll have a second glass while putting the marinaded chicken breasts on the old grill...

[This message has been edited by bernkastler (edited 10-01-2005).]

[wondersofwine]

Probably an earlier vintage but this was the red wine at my nephew's prenuptial dinner.

[StadlerDesign]

Mostly deep ruby with brickish edges. Textbook Cabernet nose with currants and plum. Dense, medium to full-bodied, dark, dusty, perhaps even stemmy blackberry fruit with oak, spicy somewhat drying and still formidible tannins, good length. Better than I remember, seems it could still shed some tannins, but the fruit might not keep up. Drink within 2 years. 91 points

[winoweenie]

Hi Stad D and welcome to the board. IMHO with good storage this wine will plateau for another 3-5. WW

[This message has been edited by winoweenie (edited 11-11-2005).]

[dananne]

Hi, Stadler, and welcome to the wine board.

I lived in Palatine for the first 18 years of my life. Graduated from Palatine HS, in fact.