Peter van den Besselaar

9.2

Vintage 2008 | 17 years, great drinking but also potential to ripen further. Real Pauillac character: strong wine with good structure, cherries and mint. — 2 days ago

Andrew Cullimore

9.3

Medium copper salmon colour . Slightly waxy dried orange , spiced wild strawberry , touch of resin , sea salt . On the palate this has more fruit , with touches of orange , spiced dried strawberry , roasted nuts, saline seaside hints , balanced acidity and elegant , refined personality. Intense and long , this is probably showing better and more complete than the 2011 I had a few weeks ago . Just starting to get going , but still with a long life ahead. From now and over the next 5 to 10 years perhaps . — 3 months ago

Andrew Cullimore

9.0

Medium deep ruby , quite narrow rim . Touch of earthy menthol , tobacco , spicy blackcurrant, grafite . On the palate quite dusty , with earthy sous bois , blackcurrant, ripe blackberry , grafite and tobacco , cocoa hints. Quite rich but balanced , good acidity, quite dusty tannins . This is probably at peak now though will last well another decade perhaps . — 5 months ago

Kevin Dale

9.5

Decanted for 40 minutes. Still drinking really young. Probably in its prime another 10-15 years. — 15 days ago

Lee Pitofsky

9.3

2008 showing very young. — a month ago

Ron Siegel

9.4

Another great one from the master that has an elegant, silky mouthfeel showing red & black fruit, savory spice with notes of glycerin, pepper, olive, blood & violets — 4 months ago

James Naphen

9.2

**Wine Review: 2008 Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (Opened November 2024)**

The 2008 Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, opened today, showcases an impressive balance and complexity, affirming its status as a finely aged wine. Its deep ruby hue remains vibrant, with exceptional clarity that invites exploration.

On the nose, ripe aromas of blackberry syrup and dark fruits are prominent, complemented by elegant notes of dried ginger and a subtle floral undertone. These aromas suggest both maturity and freshness, creating a captivating bouquet.

The palate offers a bold, full-bodied experience, featuring flavors of graphite and pencil lead that add intrigue and depth. The oak is beautifully integrated, enhancing the wine's harmony without overshadowing the fruit. The tannins, while still present, are soft and smooth, allowing the wine’s fruity core to take center stage.

Despite its 16 years of aging, this wine retains a youthful vibrancy, with its primary fruit flavors shining through. The finish is balanced and moderate in intensity, leaving a lasting impression of refinement.

Enjoyed today, this wine is a testament to the careful craftsmanship of Silver Oak. While it has clearly benefited from its time in the cellar, it remains dynamic and will continue to develop nuances for years to come. — 5 months ago

with Melissa

Rick Phillips

9.5

Private Dinner on the beach to celebrate my wife birthday. The Ritz went out of their way to find this 2008 Opus One. Flavors just burst open after decanting. Fruit was smooth with hints of blackberry and cherry. No earthy or leather just smooth fruit front to back. — a month ago

with Letha

Bob McDonald

9.5

A wonderfully balanced Cabinet blend from Bolgheri. Definitely Cabernet notes but so balanced that nothing stands out. Sassicaia is definitely Bordeaux First or Second Growth standard. Understated but irresistible nonetheless. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon; 15% Cabernet Franc. Probably one of the best non Bordeaux Cabernet blends. — 4 months ago

Andrew Cullimore

9.4

golden yellow , copper tinge . Quite open exuberant nose , orange rind , honeysuckle, saffron , ginger , marmalade . Intense marmalade , orange peel on the palate , quite rich and intense but well balanced by high acidity. Long balanced , zesty intense finish . Drinking well now and over the next 5-8 years . — 4 months ago