1999 Hanna Alexander Valley

[newsguy]

($26.99) deep garnet/purplish in color. poured a glass, waited an hour, and... wow! deep nose of black cherry, plums and a hint of cedar. tastes of same, plus a bit of coffee and spice. thick, layered mouthfeel, silky tannins & long finish. rarely have i read a description of flavors on a wine bottle and agreed with them, but they're right on the money here. to me, this wine is very reminiscent of the gallo barrelli creek cab, only a little less in-your-face (and missing the eucalyptus). the hanna is drinking great now, and actually tasted better after a night with the vacu-vin (and still was going strong, though more subdued, on day 3). WS rated this wine a 92 and a spectator selection. i agree (and think this might gain a point over time). 4,100 cases made, and i'd imagine this one will go for 10 years. if you can find it, try it.