Always an appealing Cabernet Sauvignon, this deep plum-colored vintage showcases a gorgeous Cabernet blend, with sandy, fine-grained tannins, and a plush, velvety-rich mouthfeel. Built to age and develop further complexity over time, the wine is ripe and juicy in its youth with aromas and flavors of vibrant boysenberry, strawberry preserves, and cassis alongside earthier notes of crushed stone, iron, bay laurel, and cedar. Baking spice elements from the well-integrated oak work well with the more traditional Knights Valley tones of wild lavender and bittersweet chocolate. Poised and lively with a structured, juicy, mouthwatering acidity and a finish that’s elegant, long, savory, and pleasing.
83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot, 2% Malbec, 1% Petit Verdot. The wines were aged in French oak barrels (33% new) for 15 months and underwent malolactic fermentation for further development of texture and mouthfeel.
James Suckling Review:
A mix of red and black fruits with lavender and fresh herbs followed by vanilla, blanched almonds and a hint of black ink and pencil lead. Full-bodied, firm and juicy tannins with good acidity backbone. Sound and harmonious wine with beautiful drinkability. Terrific quality. This needs two or three years to take the edge off it.