Classic Rutherford dust twining a startling degree of freshness. At 20 years on, the Niebaum Coppola Rubicon 1997 is opaque and ruby-robed, with a watery rim. 1997 was a watershed year in Napa, marking a shift toward extended hang times and higher alcohols, here it’s at 14.1% and generously fruited with mulberries, black currants, anise and smoky embers. The palate expands, awash in black cherry compote bolstered by fine, firm tannins. When it does at last contract, an impression of dried oregano. Sample
9.6 Points