Signorello 1997 Padrone Red (Napa Valley)

Country: US / Padrone
Variety: Bordeaux-style Red Blend California
Winery: Signorello / Napa Valley

Cassis liqueur, blueberry notes and a smoky cured-meat element comprise the nose of this engaging, beautifully balanced offering. Dried cherry, cedar, tea and tobacco flavors predominate, and the texture is supple. The long finish displays handsome cherry and coffee notes, with plentiful but even tannins. Almost drinkable now, but best after 2002.