92 pts - Wine Advocate
The dark ruby-colored 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley exhibits a pronounced smoky, espresso bean, and kirsch-scented nose. Round, dense, rich, full-bodied, and open-knit, its low acid flavors are undeniably appealing. Black olives make an appearance in the wine's aromatics as it sits in the glass. Anticipated maturity: now-2015. - WA, RP (1/2000)
80 pts - Wine Spectator
Shows an unusual roasted dill oak character. Dilute and woody on the palate, with a glimmer of dried currant fruit and a dry, tannic aftertaste.--1996 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 45,500 cases made. — JL (2007)
90 pts - Vinous
Good deep red-ruby. Ripe aromas of cherry, dark chocolate, tar and mint. Less dense than the '97 but shows the baby fat of the vintage. But doesn't have quite as much flavor development as the '97. Finishes with good length and slightly green tannins.- Stephen Tanzer (5/1999)