The 2017 Claret is a blend of 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 14% Malbec, 12% Petit Verdot, 8% Syrah and 2% Cabernet Franc. It opens with classic scents of chocolate-covered cherries, cedar, bay leaves and tobacco with a very classy frame of sweet spices. In the mouth, it's medium-bodied and plushly fruited with a fine grain and great freshness, finishing long. 4,482 cases produced. - EB

The producer pulls from Napa Valley, High Valley, Alexander Valley and the Russian River Valley to combine 44% Cabernet Sauvignon with 20% Merlot, 14% Malbec, 12% Petit Verdot, 8% Syrah and 2% Cabernet Franc. The result is an outstanding value and a food-friendly table wine that is seamless and Old World in style, with ample elements of structure, black fruit, tobacco, tomato leaf and toasted oak. VIRGINIE BOONE