The wine in this lot has a score of 93+ from Robert Parker and the following tasting note -The deep ruby/purple-hued 2003 Proprietary Red H Block Hudson Vineyard (a 500-case blend of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot) exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as aromas of sassafras, underbrush, menthol, cassis, crushed rocks, and graphite. Although more closed than it was last year out of barrel, it reveals a beautiful texture, an explosively rich style, and a long, pure finish. I would not be surprised to see this wine merit a score in the mid-nineties once it sheds some of its tannin. Anticipated maturity- 2008-2020+. This partnership between winemaker John Kongsgaard and auctioneer Fritz Hatton has produced distinctive, singular wines, with the H Block a California version of Bordeaux’s famed Cheval Blanc, and the Variation One a “who knows what the heck” blend of Merlot and Syrah. Think of it as a hybrid version of a Bordeaux Graves mixed with a Rhone Valley Hermitage. All of the current portfolio offerings are top-notch, although the 2004s are not up to the quality level of the last three vintages.