Hook & Ladder The Tillerman

Cecil DeLoach, winemaker. 15.4% abv. Cabernet Sauvignon 50%, Cabernet Franc 33%, and Sangiovese 17%. Grapes are from Los Amigos Ranch in the northern reach of the Russian River Valley. I purchased this on my first visit to Sonoma County some years ago. I knew at the time that it was a big, robust wine but set it in a box and sort of forgot about it. I thought this might be over-the-hill. Not so. Very dark purple color; opaque. The …

A strikingly pretty color. Nose: Bright and big with cranberry and brambles. Very recognizable as "Californian" in style. Big fruit and some oak. Taste: Vibrant black fruit, graphite and Asian spice. Lot's going on, but surprisingly well balanced. Firm tannins, a nice heavy and silky texture and a solid finish. Yum.

Dark berries and oak. Opened to drink without food and enjoyed it.

Very strong nose filled with fruit and some spice. There was some heat on the tongue with berry flavors. This is a very full wine and will just about dominate any food pairing. Will probably pass on this one next time, too heavy for my tastes.

Some interesting flavors from this blend, but not overall that good. Seemed to really have some bright fruit and oak to balance out some spice. Got worse with air. Not very memorable but pleasant enough.

good value. Some of the other reviews are too low. This wine is bright and has a little bit of complexity and is just overall pleasant.

A little pepper and spice. Floral aroma, but nothing special. We passed on buying.

Sampled at Papa Joe's. Cost $0.68 per ounce. Unknown varietals. The appearance is browning red (despite its youth). The nose is light but quite nice. The taste is assertive and flavourful. But the finish is short. Mid-good (82.5).

A fantastic value. Under $13 in wine club. Tastes like bottle over $20.