The 2009 Mt. Veeder Cabernet's color is an intense, deep-purple verging on black. On the nose the wine is floral (violets) and meaty with spice, cloves, and tar as well as tons of black fruits, blackberries and blueberries. On the palate the wine is simply massive - rich and dense with loads of sweet, ripe, round tannins. Roasted meats, mint and more dark fruits permeate the enduring, seamless finish. The 2009 vintage began with a dry, cool winter followed by a late bud break. Mild temperatures persisted through most of the summer allowing the fruit to develop at a leisurely pace. The heat arrived in late August in time to push the fruit to maturity.