Upon initial opening of this wine the color and nose are reminiscent of many Napa Cabernets. A first sip indicates a well-built Cabernet with apparent, though muted, upfront fruit (a little bit more than the 2021 vintage), very good integration of oak and pleasant acidity and tannic structure. Pouring a small glass, and having this with food (which is a must because it’s built for food) brings out a lovely viscosity and smoothness that belies the tannic structure that holds this wine together. Yes, there are the traditional blackberry, blueberry and boysenberry notes, accented by sweet oak and light vanilla. And if that were the end of the story, this would be a very good Cabernet indeed. However, after 24 hours the fruit is still dominant, as it should be, but the brightness diminishes slightly towards more mature fruit notes and notes of sandalwood, berry compote and a whisper of cocoa powder. The lithe viscosity is still there, and the acid drops just a touch, rounding out the wine. Comprised of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon, there is additionally 9% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. Aged for 20 months this is a reminder that old-school Cabernet is still working seeking out. ORIGIN: Napa Valley. ALCOHOL: 13.7%
