Guenoc Langtry Meritage Cabernet Blend 1997 North Coast, California $44
What the Wine Critics thought: Wine Enthusiast 91 points
The bouquet is pretty big and dense, with some high-tone raspberry peeking through the surface. Black plum and cherry get help from licorice and vanilla on the palate. Zippy fruit is the signature, even as it does a nice, long fade.
What we thought: A truly remarkably drinkable Bordeaux blend done in ripe California style with exceptionally forward fruit. It begins with a cedary, blackberry nose, followed by an eruption of dark fruit on the palate, soft tannins and a long spicy finish complete the package. I'm sure you could cellar this one but it is so approachable now that I say why bother...

November 20, 2001