A 300-case blend of 47% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Syrah, and 10% Cabernet Franc, the 2002 Chester-Kidder explodes from the glass with spices that are reminiscent of wines made in American oak (though all the oak was French). Its cedary, dark-fruit-laced personality is firm, structured, and boasts loads of exotic spice flavors. This concentrated wine will benefit from cellaring to civilize its tannin.
