2003 Nickel and Nickel Branding Iron Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

Wow. Upon opening the bottle, pouring the first taste, and taking in its aromas; I was impressed. Jammy fruit blasts the nose and you taste what you smell. Smooth, polished finish. Tannins are present, but far from noticeable. If I were to taste this blind, I'd label it as a merlot. Sediment; needs filter, but not necessarily aeration. In fact, I'd go against aeration because it's gold right out of the bottle. Winemaker notes & back of the bottle:

The flavors get better and better as this vineyard matures. This 2003 Branding Iron flaunts a mixture of wild berry and cranberry fruit. The middle palate is fat and coating as it tastes sweet and polished even though the wine is dry. A warm, spicy toast coming from the barrels complements the fruit, while the soft tannins finish with harmony and grace.
Oakville's Branding Iron vineyard was named for a branding iron shaped like two opposing wineglasses, that has been in the properietor's family for generations. Round and polished, this is an approachable Cabernet Sauvignon with notes of cherry, spice and toasty oak, accented by soft tannins and a harmonious finish.

IHSV.