A very reserved and structured cabernet with red and dark berries, as well as cedary notes and a savory, iodine-like edge. The palate has a very balanced and composed feel with a sleek, focused edge to the fresh blackcurrant flavors. Drink or hold.

Moving to the reds, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley checks in as 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, and 5% Malbec that spent 20 months in 75% new French oak. Deep purple-colored with notes of blackcurrants, blueberries, smoked earth, white chocolate, and crushed violets, it's medium to full-bodied, ripe, and sexy, with a core of sweet fruit. It’s a terrific 2017 as well as a good value.

Composed of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot and 5% Malbec, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley comes from vineyards on Mount Veeder (56%), Howell Mountain (29%) and Oakville (15%). It was aged in French oak for 22 months, 70% new. Very deep purple-black colored, the nose is just a tad broody and closed to begin, opening out to reveal notes of warm cassis, redcurrant jelly, kirsch and raspberry leaves with hints of wild mushrooms, tilled soil and bay leaves. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers a good amount of juicy black fruits with plenty of invigorating red berry and herbal sparks and a chewy texture, finishing on an earthy note. 3,484 cases were made. - LPB