Aged 15 months in 80% new French oak before blending, then a further 6 months before bottling without fining or filtration. 2000 cases produced. Winemaker Celia Welch. Bret Lopez and Mimi DeBlasio created Scarecrow in 2002 after Lopez bought a vineyard first planted in 1945 within the J J Cohn Estate. The mere 2 acres of head-pruned, dry-farmed vines on the Rutherford Bench remain the foundation of the wines produced here. Deep ruby colour. Intense, and pure cassis on the nose – very slick and suave. There are some herbal tones in the mix too that add complexity and prevent an overly sweet perception. Greatly refined tannins and concentrated black fruit on the palate. Supple, intense and moreish, the texture gives comfort that there is enough structure to age. Remarkably approachable for such a young wine. Lots of toasty oak on the back end but this is in balance with the fruit that drives the palate. Long, long finish, an impressive showing. (TP)