As a group, how are '97 Cal Cabs drinking? Any life left in 'em?

Question

I have so many I haven't gotten around to drinking...

I've got everything from Silver Oak to Dunn to Estancia to Montelena to Maiden to Stag's Leap.... and on and on

Answer 1

For California, the 97's are coming out of their closed phase now. If you look at www.cellartracker.com you will see tasting notes from users that have been steadily improving over the past year or so. I looked at Arrowood and Beringer Howell Mountain single vineyard wines.

A quality wine that was vinted with some structure will follow this pattern. The wines that were not structured to age are likely over the hill.

Answer 2

'97 still should be OK for good California cabernets. Unless it's a cheap bottle, then you should drink it soon. Older California cabs just beat out older French wines in a remake of the Judgment of Paris, so you should be good.

I just had a 97 Beringer Private Reserve cab a couple of weeks ago, it was great, no issues.

Answer 3

for once someone is asking about good wine on here, your blue chip cal. cabs should be wonderful now, the usual frift forwardness of the cal. cabs has mellowed and the tannins have softned,all while preserving a lingering finish. my 97 silver oak and 97 plumpjack could rival a 2nd growth bordeaux