yep. 15.5% alcohol per the label. 
I know it is warm in Calistoga, but Vincent Arroyo and Montelena somehow manage to make wines that do not literally burn one's throat. 
Poured down the drain. Patrick loves scotch, so he volunteered to take it off my hands. So out of balance...not a fruit bomb, either, the fruit had faded quite a bit. 70 points...2004 Hall Napa River Ranch Merlot. I need a just a wee bit more fruit. Still, nice, soft, earthy Bordeaux-esque character that contrasted well with the Bennet Lane flambe fluid. I finished the glass of this one...quite pleasant if not really very exciting. 84 points.
2006 Broc Cellars Bennet Valley Syrah This was a delicious Syrah...wild, earthy blueberry fruit. Lively acidity and mouthfeel. Chewy tannins...but not heavy in any way. became more savory and meaty with air. Delicious stuff. 92 points plus!
2007 Tayson Pierce Cabernet Sauvignon tasted a nice sip at St. Helena Wine Exchange. Already showing quite a bit of complexity...earthy, savory, some interesting funky notes. Tannins are not obtrusive but definitely there. Good acidity. Beautiful cassis fruit. I am liking some of the early 2007 Napa Cabernets. Can't afford this ($100), but a very nice splurge wine.
Zuzao Gaston 2005 Rioja Crianza Delicious, light earthy Rioja. Plenty of plum fruit, but this is definitely the earthier side of Rioja.
