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

Silver Oak (Napa Valley) 1994

A lovely wine. Rich, round, harmonious, and perfectly balanced. Fully mature at age 11 but with plenty of life left. Chocolate, mocha java coffee, and cassis, plus a healthy dollop of vanillin and a touch of dill from the American oak. Highest recommendation. Grade: A

Interestingly, although I gave it the same grade when last reviewed in June 2004, the flavor profile of that bottle apparently leaned more towards fruit than towards the earthy chocolate and coffee flavors that dominated this bottle.