WTN: 1996 Laurel Glen Cab

Dark red, a little lightening at the rim but no bricking, cassis, creamy lactic notes on nose, full-bodied, ripe fruits on palate get obliterated on the finish by tannins. Thought this would be ready by now, but if anything this bottle seems less ready than the one opened last year. Put aside for a day - and on day two the tannins have mellowed tremendously and the fruit takes over all the way through to a nice finish. Wait another couple of years for this one.

[David M. Bueker]

I actually find it a bit sad that Laurel Glen has been so overlooked (not too sad of course since prices have stayed reasonable). It's wonderful wine year in and year out, and ages very well.

The 2000 was lovely the other week, David. Surprised to hear about the fierce tannins, as we just popped and poured.