A blend of one-third each cabernet and merlot, with the rest franc and petit verdot, this Red Mountain red stands out for its lift and poise, while retaining classic elements of the appellation. Its scents are dense and blue, heady at the outset, adorned with a clove-like wood spice. The flavors are fully ripe and intense, the tannins massive at first—though after a day they grow more precise. A steal of a red for slow-smoked beef.

Gritty tannins underlie a plush ball of black cherry and raspberry flavors that blossom and roll through the open-textured finish. The tannins need time to soften. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2016 through 2021. – HS