The heart and soul of the 2005 Ex-Libris, like previous vintages, is Cabernet Sauvignon (82%) from the Champoux and Millbrandt Vineyards along with juice from nine other top Columbia Valley Cabernet vineyards, blended with some Merlot (8%) Syrah (8%) and a dash of Petite Verdot (2%) for complexity. The wine was aged for 16 months in French oak. On the nose, it is classic WA Cab, with deep cassis fruit and hints of cedar and spice. The palate is full, with broad concentrated fruit, and a Bordelaise structure that is often found in the Northwest's best Cabernets. The pedigree of these great vineyards comes through clearly in this superb value Cabernet.