Cassis and wildflowers are a force strong with this one. Dark chocolate and ripe cherry smoulder from the glass. Raspberries and potpourri accompany a svelte body that hums with sophistication. There is a hint of eucalyptus and a pinch of sage on a sinewy structure that doesn’t overpower.
Subtle strength defines the aromatics, with notes of rose, cola and cedar. The edges are round and flavors carom on the plate. Spices and hints of smoke emerge, jacketed in a solid tannic structure with a torrent bramble berry fruit compote.
Perfectly balanced, with toasted macadamia, tangerine, peach, and lime blossom. Round and sumptuous, impacting the palate with a creamy wash of vanilla custard. Aged 12 months in 35% new French oak.
Cherries and red tea rise from the earth, with floral tones of hibiscus and rose. Coaxed by vibrant acidity, cinnamon toast with dots of balsamic and nutmeg are seductive.
A remarkable vintage for a stunning wine, its grapes sourced from top vineyards in Sonoma County by winemaker Justin Seindenfeld. The blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, with small percentages of Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, was aged 24 months in 75% new French oak. Black raspberry stains the palate, decidedly lush and creamy. Anise exacts a certain texture as well, leading to black-peppered sandalwood and a secret pathway to a garden of Mediterranean herbs. Tannins are round and silky, but broad and present enough to exude the wine’s inner strength.
Priced at a level common among Sauvignons from Marlborough, this is exceptional in quality. Its bouquet is expressive without being overly pungent, with subtle suggestions of dried herbs working very well with fruit aromas and flavors recalling limes and grapefruit. The finish is unusually, admirably dry, with a pleasant touch of citrus rind bitterness in the finish.
Chocolate-covered cherries are cheerful and bright, with a hint of tension, leveled out by a defined structure. Tannins are evident but gently avail themselves by wrapping around white pepper, pomegranate, and baking spices.
Creamy and biscuity, with a foundation of lemon curd and garden herbs. Salted pears gather mid-palate, with honey and jasmine to sweeten the pot.