“The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is composed of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it prances out of the glass with showy notes of warm cassis, baked black berries, Black Forest cake and menthol, plus suggestions of cardamom and licorice. The medium to full-bodied palate is refreshing and elegantly styled with bags of juicy, expressive black fruits and a satisfyingly savory finish. 1,600 cases are due to be made. (Tasted as a barrel sample.)”

“The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve remains the hidden gem in this range. Naturally, it does not have the singularity of the vineyard designates, but then again, that whole concept (with a few exceptions) is very new to Napa Valley, where historically most wines were blends. That concept works so well in the Reserve, a wine that takes elements of several sites for a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. Gravel, spice, leather and sweet spice open with a bit of air, but ultimately it is the wine’s balance that really says it all. This is a fabulous showing.”