"Francis Ford Coppola, the famous director, purchased Inglenook Wine Estate. The 2005 Proprietary Red Rubicon is a stunner from the famous estate vineyards first planted by Gustave Niebaum more than 100 years ago. Dense ruby/purple, the wine reveals classic, almost Graves-like scorched earth and volcanic notes mixed with blackberry, cassis and iron. Full-bodied, fresh and lively, with luscious, rich fruit, a good, heady glycerin level (14.8% alcohol) and well-integrated acidity, wood and tannin, this beauty is set for another two decades of evolution."
Wine Spectator
WS93
"Gorgeous and drinking well, with ripe, plump plum, blackberry and currant flavors. This is supple and juicy, with fleshy tannins, ending with a touch of charry creosote and mint."
Wine Enthusiast
WE96
"Made from 98% Cabernet Sauvignon, with no Merlot or Cabernet Franc for the first time, the ’05 Rubicon tastes bigger and more impenetrable than any previous vintage. It’s thick and heavy at this time, with furry tannins and undeniably ripe flavors of blackberries, black currants, cherries, violets, chocolate and cedar, and a tang of melted minerals. Desperately needs time in the cellar. Nowhere near ready for at least four years, and that may be conservative.Tasted three times, and better each time, a seriously good sign, and potentially a perfect wine."
