Mark Herold Wines Herold by Mark Herold 2011 750ml

(14.9% alcohol; 100% cabernet sauvignon; a selection of the best barrels and vineyards; from vines in Oakville and Coombsville): Bright medium red. Sexy aromas and flavors of black raspberry, plum, loam and smoky oak. Sweet, lush, seamless and deep; wonderfully plush and ripe for 2011. Finishes with big, ripe, broad tannins and a strong core of deep spices. Not for now, but this should be a standout 2011.

The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Herold by Mark Herold is the darkest and most voluptuous of Mark Herold's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignons. Layers of black/blue fruit, smoke, licorice, tobacco and cloves all burst from the glass in a rich, large-scaled wine endowed with depth and pure resonance, both qualities that are hard to find in 2011. The 2011 was made from fruit sourced from Oakville Ranch and a number of sites in Coombsville.<br/><br/>

The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Herold by Mark Herold is a significant step down in quality from the 2010, simply because of the vintage conditions. Although much lighter, it displays a dark ruby/purple color, attractive ripeness, and notions of berry fruit, black raspberries and blueberries, bouquet garni, and earthy notes. Medium-bodied with a good but uninspiring finish, it is a successful wine for the vintage, and is best drunk over the next decade.