A new cuvée from Smith that's from a valley floor site in Rutherford, brought up in new barrels, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Round Pond Vineyard is a ripe, plush, incredibly sexy effort from this estate that still shows remarkable elegance and purity. Blackcurrants, scorched earth, chocolate, and spicy notes all flow to a full-bodied, powerful Cabernet that has a broad, expansive texture, supple tannin, and a classic Napa profile. It's approachable now but will keep for two decades or more. 100 cases.

One-hundred percent Cabernet Sauvignon, the deep purple-black colored 2016 Myriad Cellars Round Pond Cabernet Sauvignon features exuberant scents of crushed blackberries, mulberries and blackcurrant cordial with nuances of tobacco, new leather, menthol and molten chocolate. Full-bodied, concentrated, boldly fruited and sporting a velvety texture to die for, the palate features layers of open-knit opulence and bags of exotic spices on the finish.- LPB

Violets and blue fruit abound and there’s layer of chalky, freshly sawn oak on the nose as well as roasted coconut and vanillin. The palate has a very ripe, deep and plush feel with plum paste and a long, essence-like finish. Super ripe. Drink or hold.

Not shy on ripeness, as waves of creamed plum and boysenberry cruise through. Energetic, with subtle ripples of acidity adding length. Licorice and apple wood notes impart range through the finish. Best from 2021 through 2026. 200 cases made. — JM