Professor Bainbridge...on law, politics, religion, culture & food

Decoy (Napa Valley) 2002

Decoy is Duckhorn’s second wine. In 2002, it blended the three main Bordeaux varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon (53%), Merlot (26%), and Cabernet Franc (21%), all sourced from Napa Valley vineyards. When last noted in April 2005, I suggested that there’s “enough tannin on the finish to justify holding on to a bottle or two to see how it does medium term.” I’d say the medium term is over. It’s a soft, pleasant wine with good black cherry and currant flavors. But it’s coming up on its expiration date real fast. There’s a hint of VA on the finish that suggests you need to drink it up. Decant it off the moderate sediment and let it breathe for a while because there’s something a little odd when it’s first opened. Grade: B+