(95+ points) The 2016 Almaviva was showing really well, quite subtle and austere, less showy than the 2017 and 2018 vintages. It has less alcohol than either of the following two vintages, and it's perhaps a slightly different vintage of Almaviva, a little lighter and with a more elegant and subtle profile. This is a vintage of more finesse, closer to a classic Bordeaux, with a dry, austere finish—there is no room for any sweetness here. This is a little bit better than I thought. - Luis Gutiérrez

Elegant, powerful and well-structured, with a refined mix of dark fruit, dried red fruit and spice flavors. Dried herbal notes come in midpalate, with a minerally finish that is long and rich-tasting. Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2025. — K.M.

This is a delicious and slightly austere wine with medium body and berry, herb and currant character. Smoked meat, dried spice and walnut, too. Firm. 66% cabernet sauvignon, 24% carmenere, 8% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot. Evolving a little more quickly than expected. Drink now.

Berry aromas with a mineral twang lead to notes of earth, olive and freshly fallen leaves. As per usual for Almaviva, the palate is round and smooth as silk. Blackberry, cassis, toasty oak and cocoa powder flavors finish creamy and oaky, but this still holds the line and is perfectly balanced for the long haul. Best from 2016 through 2022. MICHAEL SCHACHNER