I had a dinner meeting with the folks involved with this website, Mack, Anani, and Michaelangelo. We discussed multiple issues in regard to the direction of the site…but more on that later.
A reader, Jonathan Branch, sent me a bottle of his Branch Cellars, Animae, 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon. It was well received by the fellas. This is a quick note while the flavors linger. I decanted this wine at room temperature. Beautiful, transparent ruby color. Upon opening, the nose is young, but suprisingly full. It has a distinctive cab aroma, surprising for such a young wine. Good fruit. Moderate acidity, and very strong tannins.
We let the wine decant over two hours. The dark fruit flavors have come out to play. Persistent strong, but now textured (layered) tannins. The balance is asserting itself. The finish is very long. Impressively long. Back to the fence long. Bordeaux long.
It’s young, as expected, but this sucker has legs. Would hold for a minimum of three years. A standout now, but will really improve over time.
I am (insert pause for a sip) impressed.
Bravo! Mr. Branch
Reg