The 2009 Ovid is stunningly beautiful. At times it shows a little more depth, power and richness than the Hexameter, but both wines are compelling. Endless layers of fruit saturate the palate as this rich, intense wine conquers the heart and intellect. A totally vivid wine, the 2009 is even more impressive from bottle than it was from barrel. Over the time I followed it, the 2009 gained finesse and elegance in the glass, which bodes quite well for the future. Intense graphite, crushed rocks and pencil shaving nuances add energy to the polished, huge finish. The blend is 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029.

Ovid keeps raising the bar with this drop-dead gorgeous set of new releases. Owners Dana Johnson and Mark Nelson have spared no expense in their pursuit to make world-class wines. These new releases are a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality. This year I also tasted two of the ‘Experiment’ series wines, which bear creative names inspired by Dana Johnson’s background in Library Sciences. The talented Austin Peterson makes the wines, Andy Erickson consults and David Abreu manages the vineyards, but what really counts is what is in the bottle. The results so far from this young property have been nothing less than stellar.

Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 98+ RP

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With a beautiful purple color, this wine quickly exhibits classic Cabernet aromas of black currants and cedar. In the mouth, it's full bodied and concentrated, showing powerful, sweet blackberry fruit. It's incredibly refined, impressively structured, massive, impeccable and frankly delicious. This should develop over the next 20 years, at least.

Wine Enthusiast | 97 WE

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Gorgeous aromas, plump and generous, lead to ripe, rich, juicy plum and black cherry flavors that show touches of cedar, fresh earth, black licorice and spice. Gains momentum and finesse, with a long, subtle, detailed finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2014 through 2026. 550 cases made.

Wine Spectator | 95 WS

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Bright, full, deep ruby. Very sexy, musky nose conveys liqueur-like ripeness to the aromas of black fruits, licorice, menthol and minerals; a faint leesy quality adds nuance without distracting from the fruit. Plush, sweet, highly concentrated and seamless; this wine was a bit strict in the early going but today it really captures the creamy side of this vintage. Perhaps most impressive on the slowly building finish, which features suave tannins and a firming touch of graphite minerality. Really expands on the palate with air. Utterly delicious today but capable of holding for at least another decade. (14.8% alcohol)

Vinous Media | 94 VM

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