(Originally published October 2006)

We recently had the opportunity to taste through a range of current releases from Napa Valley’s Sullivan Vineyards. A family owned and operated winery, Sullivan Vineyards was established in 1972 in the Rutherford region of Napa Valley. Jim and JoAnna Sullivan were inspired by the Cabernets of the 1950s and 1960s from nearby wineries BV and Inglenook and committed to finding a location that could produce similar world class wines.

Sullivan Vineyards’ first vintage came in 1981, and the winery quickly garnered high scores and recognition from wine writers around the globe. Sullivan’s wines are hardly shy, with blockbuster-style flavors and tannins, but they simultaneously offer the important balance and structure that makes them cellar-worthy and complex.

Oldest son Sean Sullivan is now General Manager of the winery, overseeing vineyard and winery operations and working alongside winemaker Philippe Langner who joined the winery in 2001 after long stints in Bordeaux.

We’ve included all the wines in this issue’s Splurge Wine – not because they’re all terribly pricey, but because it’s truly a special treat to be able to taste wines like these – handcrafted, small production, well balanced and reflecting an obvious sense of family pride.

Sullivan Vineyards 2005 Rosé Napa Valley Pink Ink ($18). Made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this rosé is a rich ruby pink, offers pretty cherry, pink grapefruit and nectarine aromas and crisp, medium-bodied fruity flavors that linger delightfully on the clean finish. Ready to drink now.

Sullivan Vineyards 2004 Chardonnay Napa Valley Private Reserve ($30). Heady honeysuckle and wildflower aromas introduce complex flavor layers, including citrus zest, honey, green fig, pineapple, crisp pear and lemon that mingle on the long, elegant finish. Subtle acidity keeps things bright and food-friendly. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years.

Sullivan Vineyards 2004 Red Wine Napa Valley Red Ink ($25). A blend of Merlot (60%), Syrah (23%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (17%), this slurpable red offers ripe red berry and plum aromas and flavors, laced with kicky spices, toasty vanilla, a touch of mint on the lush finish. You find yourself reaching for another pour before your glass is even empty… Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years.

Sullivan Vineyards 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Rutherford ($55). Aromatic cedar and loads of spices accent red raspberry and cherry fruit, picking up dashes of leather, tobacco and oak on the long, focused finish. Tightly wound tannins now suggest nice aging potential. Tempting now and over the next seven or eight years.

Sullivan Vineyards 2003 Coeur de Vigne Napa Valley ($90). A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (56%) and Merlot (44%), this initially offers meaty plum and earthy aromas that open up to include sweet red berry, introduce sweet red berry, warm baking spices, blueberry, fresh herbs, coffee and toasty oak that all mingle on the lovely finish. Elegant tannic structure. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years.

Sullivan Vineyards 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford Reserve ($100). Powerful cedar, anise and clove aromas and flavors accent concentrated red cherry, plum and raspberry fruit in this full-bodied yet elegant wine. The flavors evolve through the long, lush finish, picking up espresso and toasty oak along the way. Smooth mouthfeel belies powerful tannic structure. Appealing now, but best in about three years. Then enjoy for at least ten more.

Learn more about Sullivan Vineyards and its wines at www.sullivanwine.com.