Our 2005 Napa Valley, a blend of wine from several selected vineyards in the appellation, is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. We blended the vineyard lots in early 2006 and transferred the wine to 100% new American oak barrels for aging. Blending prior to barreling allows us to achieve a balance of the wineÆs primary elements, such as fruit and tannin, before they are influenced by oak. The wine was then aged in barrel for approximately 25 months and another 20 months in bottle to harmonize its components before release.

91 Points International Wine Cellar (Steven Tanzer)

"Good deep red-ruby. Musky aromas of cassis, licorice, game, tobacco leaf and subtle brown spices. Velvety-sweet and deep, with hints of tobacco leaf, mint and herbs giving definition to the middle palate. Nicely bright but youthfully tight wine, finishing with broad tannins. Carrying a moderate 13.5% alcohol. Still tight, but then this won't be released until next winter. Incidentally, following Silver Oak's purchase of a vineyard in Soda Canyon in 1999, this wine now relies less on contract fruit. "

92 Points Wine & Spirits

"A classic Alexander Valley cabernet, this is dark and cedary, and as smooth as velvet. The tannins last, built on black-cherry-skin flavors and earthy, root vegetable notes. With time, that black cherry flavor should become more prominent, balancing the wine's earthy complexities. Drink this over the next several years with anything meaty, from duck and game birds to steak."