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THE WINE ADVOCATE: "The 2008 Madrona Ranch opens with an incredibly expressive bouquet. Espresso, mocha and licorice meld into dark red fruit and sweet exotic spices in this superb wine. The 2008 is an extraordinarily polished, refined wine for the vintage. Sweet spiced and floral notes reappear to round out the finish. The relatively high percentage of Cabernet Franc (37%) comes through in spades here. The blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033. "
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THE WINE CELLAR INSIDER: "Explosive aromas of black cherry liqueur, vanilla bean, coffee, charcoal and blueberry create the perfume. From a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot, the wine is fleshy, rich and dense, ending with lush, chocolate covered boysenberries in the long, expansive complex finish that lasts for close to 50 seconds!"
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WINE SPECTATOR: "Ultrarich and gutsy, nuzzling up to syrupy, this is a chewy, extracted style that extends the flavors to kirsch, black licorice, blackberry jam, espresso, hazelnut and toffee. Ends with chewy, grainy tannins that give the flavors traction. Drink now through 2026. 350 cases made."