This is a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, and 1% Petite Sirah from Napa, California. This is always my favorite of the Realm wines especially when factoring in price. Inky purple in color, opaque and shimmering bright. The nose is great with cassis, cedar, chocolate, graphite, black cherries, spice and cigar box. Full bodied. Almost seamless silky texture. Firm tannins. Great energy and balance. On the palate, this is already delicious and drinking well. Flavors of cassis, black cherries, slight tobacco, chocolate and spice. Long finish. Drink over the next twenty to thirty years. It is great on its own and will work with big foods (not seafood) such as a Standing Rib Roast or a plate of Spaghetti and Meatballs. The score may still improve with a bit of short term cellaring.
