Arrowood Réserve Spéciale – Sonoma Valley – 2014
Rating: 95 - Wine Advocate
Composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Introduced to the nose with seductive dark fruit and aromas of blackberry, fresh fig, and licorice, this wine is rich in complexities. Fresh notes of Bing cherry and violet also surface as the wine breathes. Framed by a firm structure and silky elegance, the persisting texture defines what makes this wine the Reserve Speciale. The power behind this wine ingratiates itself to the entire palate—dark chocolate and nutmeg outline baking spices and plum. And a lingering finish will carry on long afterwards. The long barrel aging and year in bottle before release guarantee its readiness to drink. However, those that hold onto it will be rewarded, with an aging potential of 20+ years.
Austin Hope – Paso Robles – 2020
Rating: 95 – Wine Advocate
The Austin Hope Cabernet displays a beautiful ruby hue. Enticing aromas of fresh black cherry, burnt sugar and a slight smokiness fill your glass. On the palate, flavors evolve with vanilla foam, ripe dark fruit, roasted coffee & nuances of spice. This full-bodied wine is rounded out with smooth supple tannins that are brightened with a touch of acidity to balance this crowd pleasing Cabernet Sauvignon.
Double Canyon Horse Heaven Hills – Washington – 2017
Rating: 90 – Wine Enthusiast
Composition: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Malbec, 7% Petit Verdot, 3% Syrah
lmpactful deep plum aromas with hints of raspberry jam and the feeling of fresh ocean spray open your mind to the tasting experience to ensue. The first entry to the pallet is silky smooth and opens with delicately assembled blackberry, plum, and peach cobbler, all supported by a dusty tannin structure which is complemented by a mouthwatering sensation approximately five seconds from the beginning of the experience. The finish is lengthy and subtle with hints of South American coffee and heath candies.
Kendall Jackson – Jackson Estate Appellation – Alexander Valley - 2017
Rating: 92 - Vinous
Composition: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon 22% Merlot
A bold, powerful wine, the Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley possesses tremendous density and tons of pure power. Black cherry, menthol, licorice, chocolate, cloves and French oak add to an impression of gravitas and brooding power. This is an especially rich, muscular style.
Mt. Brave – Mt. Veeder - 2018
Rating: 95 - Wine Spectator
Composition: 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6.5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot, 1.5% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec
Deep garnet-purple colored, it springs from the glass with vibrant crème de cassis, baked plums and Morello cherries scents, followed by nuances of sautéed herbs, clove oil, mocha and scorched earth. The full-bodied palate is densely laden with layers of black and blue fruits, sporting a rock-solid backbone of grainy tannins and great tension, finishing long and minerally
Penfolds Bin 704 – Napa Valley – 2019
Rating: 94 – Wine Advocate
Composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Black Forest cake, glazed cherries and dark chocolate aromas. Oak doesn’t distract on the nose, it is impossible to avert attention from a fruit-derived core. Chocolate coated (flavor) almonds (tannic-texture). Pomegranate-like acidity contributes to liveliness and dovetailed cedary/spicy oak adds to intrigue. Sleek. Silken. Supple.
Pope Valley Winery – Napa Valley - 2018
Rating: 92 - USA wine ratings
Composition: 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec
Fresh aromas of juniper and sage unfold to smoked jerky and cassis; the palate if dark and juicy supported by fresh cigar and toffee flavors; followed by dusty cocoa powder and tight structure on a clean, focused finish.
