2001 Gemstone Yountville Red Wine

94 Points from Robert Parker: "A fabulous effort, Gemstone’s 2001 is a 642-case blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. Proprietor Paul Frank (a former jeweler, hence the name) has turned a great winemaker loose, resulting in a powerful, rich red with a French-like elegance and complexity. Its deep purple color is accompanied by a sweet, complex nose of spice box, creme de cassis, anise, and white flowers. Dense, full-bodied, restrained, and perfectly balanced, this beauty can be drunk now and over the next 15+ years. Kudos to proprietor Paul Frank." (2/27/2005)

92 Points from Wine Spectator: "A smooth, rich and creamy style, with pretty mocha, blackberry and currant flavors that are intense and concentrated, gaining amplitude and ending with firm, tight tannins and a touch of cedary oak. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2005 through 2011. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 570 cases made." (11/15/2004)

92 Points Vinous: "(cabernet sauvignon blended with 7% merlot and 6% cabernet franc) Full medium ruby. Roasted, musky aromas of cassis, bitter chocolate, mocha, licorice and shoe polish. Lush, sweet and concentrated, with superripe, sappy flavors of cassis and menthol. Conveys an impression of strong extract. Finishes with fine, building tannins and very persistent dark fruit flavor." (05/2004)