100 pts - Wine Advocate
I have consumed several bottles of the 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill. One of the most awesome young reds I have ever tasted, it possesses a black/purple color, a seamless texture, and freakishly high levels of intensity (cassis, black and blueberries infused with espresso, chocolate, and licorice) that are flawlessly presented in a full-bodied, massive yet elegant wine. Nothing is out of balance in this explosively rich, thick, highly-extracted Cabernet. A compelling, historic Cabernet Sauvignon, it will drink well for 30-35 years.It is not too much to suggest that in the future, Bryant's Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon might well be one of the wines that redefines greatness in Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: now-2035. - RP
99 pts - Wine Spectator
95 pts - Vinous
Medium red-ruby. Deep, captivating aromas of dark berries, black cherry, mocha, earth and gravel. Wonderfully plush and sweet on entry, then fat, viscous and pliant in the mouth, spreading out horizontally to saturate the palate. Ripe acidity and a note of licorice drive the finish, with the tannins present but broad and fine-grained. A splendid showing.- Stephen Tanzer (9/217)