2005 Cadence "Klipsun Vineyard" Red Mountain Washington Red Wine (Previously $45)

90 points from Wine Spectator: "Firm in texture, with layers of currant, spice and savory flavors that mingle in the mouth and linger well as the finish rolls on. Needs time to soften, but it's close to opening up. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best after 2009. 270 cases made." (Mar. 31, 2007) 90 points from the Wine Advocate: "The 2005 Klipsun is composed of 82% Merlot and 18% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dark ruby-colored, it offers an expressive bouquet of wood smoke, earth notes, red currants, and black cherry. This is followed by a medium to full-bodied wine with a supple texture, good depth, and considerable elegance. It will evolve for several years and be at its best from 2012 to 2020." (Jun 2008) From Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Medium red. Aromas of plum syrup, redcurrant, boysenberry and nutty oak. Fat, round and sweet, with good breadth and subtle suggestions of plum, mocha and tobacco leaf. The dusty, broad tannins build on the back but avoid dryness, allowing the finish to express itself. Incidentally, beginning with the 2006 vintage, Ben Smith will be working solely with Tapteil, Ciel du Cheval and his own Cara Mia estate vineyard next to Tapteil, where he has 8.5 acres under vine at a relatively dense 3 foot by 8 foot spacing." (Nov/Dec 07)