The score for 2008 Cliff Lede Vineyards Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District is 93 points from Robert Parker and the tasting note - Ratcheting up the level of elegance and complexity, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry Stags Leap (composed of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and the rest Merlot, Petit Verdot and a tiny bit of Malbec) is very Chateau Margaux-like with its floral notes interwoven with black currants, graphite and toast. With admirable power, finesse and freshness, it is a beautifully balanced, medium to full-bodied wine with a layered richness and a long, supple finish. Elegant, well-made Cabernets continue to emerge from this reputable as well as increasingly high quality producer in the tiny corridor of Stags Leap where the Yountville Crossroad intersects the Silverado Trail. Cliff Lede’s forward, delicious 2008s merit attention from readers. An early look at the 2009s suggests these will be early drinkers as they possess forward fruit, soft tannins and endearing, mid-weight styles. For most wineries, 2009 is clearly not a blockbuster vintage, but rather one that might turn out to be similar to 2005, underrated initially, but putting on weight and showing beautiful balance in what was clearly a cooler year.