How much fun collectors will have comparing the 2007 and 2008 La Joies over the next three decades. A blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec (48% from Alexander Valley Mountain Estate, 34% from Chalk Hill and 18% from Knight’s Valley), the 2008 has similar technical numbers to the 2007 (a pH of 3.68 and 14.4% alcohol). Wonderful notes of roasted herbs, asphalt, black truffles, blackberries, cassis, camphor and subtle oak are present in the majestic aromatics. In the mouth, the wine is extraordinarily concentrated, pure and dense with amazing length. It is another 30-40 year wine that confirms the confidence the late Jess Jackson had in both his vineyard sources and his winemaker, Pierre Seillan.

Robert Parker | 99 RP

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(14.3% alcohol): Saturated ruby-red. Slightly medicinal aromas of black cherry, tar, licorice, menthol, tobacco leaf and dark chocolate. The sweetest of this trio of '08s on entry, then firm acidity kicks in to keep the fine-grained black cherry, blackberry, mineral and leafy flavors under wraps today. Quite light on its feet and wonderfully energetic in the way of a tightly coiled spring, even if it's not yet showing the texture of the Vérité "Right Bank" blends. Finishes classically dry and very long, with some medicinal reserve and a firm tannic spine to ensure a very long life in bottle.

Vinous Media | 94+ VM

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Right now this is not typically soft and lush like a cult Cab, but hard in tannins, with minerality like little particles of granite. Buried deep down is a pirate's treasure of ripe, intense blackberry fruit. New oak, to the tune of 94%, doesn't cloud the wine, suggesting this blend's its intensity and concentration. The wine is comprised of all five classic Bordeaux varieties, sourced throughout Sonoma County. Clearly this is one for the cellar; drink after 2018.

Wine Enthusiast | 94 WE

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There's a sweet oaky toastiness on the lively and elegant blackberry nose. Full-bodied and mellow, this rich and concentrated wine shows restraint and a persistent freshness. It lacks a little depth and energy but it's stíll vigorous and long. Drinking Window 2019 - 2030.

Decanter | 92 DEC

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