There was a time years when some speculated that the strong tannins of the

There was a time years when some speculated that the strong tannins of the 1994 Jean Leon Cabernet Sauvignon Gran Reserva would outlast its fruit. At the 10-year mark it is clear that, although some considerable tannins remain, they have subsided markedly and revealed a solid core of plum and cassis fruit. The nose of this 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc blend features bright clean fruit, cigar box, ginger, and menthol/spearmint. In the mouth this wine is harmonious from the attack through the end of the mid-palate, but it is slightly clunky at the finish. The wine still is young and would benefit from a more cellar time, but it is certainly approachable and enjoyable now, particularly with meat dishes.