Showing precision craftsmanship, this wine hails from a tiny vineyard on Napa’s famed Diamond Mountain. Only 225 cases were produced, but it’s worth a search if you’re looking for classic mountain Cabernet capable of extended aging. The wine has a linearity that defines elegance, yet is rich in blackberries and cassis, with oak nuances. Containing small quantities of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot for complexity, it will reward aging until at least 2018, and should be going strong in 2030.

Dyer’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is superb. The finessed, elegant side of Diamond Mountain comes through in spades. A pedigreed, silky wine, the 2010 impresses for its exceptional balance and pure class. Today the aromas and flavors are naturally quite primary, so readers will want to cellar the 2010 for at least a few years. This is one of the most refined Cabernet Sauvignons I have ever tasted from Diamond Mountain. The only bad news is that yields were down significantly and there are only 250 cases to go around versus the 400 that is more typical. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030. - Antonio Galloni