(98+ points) The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is more backward and structured, with a brooding bouquet of black fruits, scorched earth, tobacco, camphor, and spicy oak. This carries to a full-bodied, primordial beast of a wine that has a stacked mid-palate, loads of tannins, a rounded, expansive texture, and a big finish. It's a serious, powerful wine that's not going to offer much pleasure for at least another 3-5 years, yet this sure bet is magical juice that will evolve for 30 years or more. If you just can't wait, give bottles a solid hour or so in a decanter.

The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a selection of the best barrels in the cellar. It has a bit more energy and tannic spine than the Estate, which both lend a palpable sense of vibrancy that builds over time. Crème de cassis, lavender, spice and crushed rocks offer a captivating expression of this Odette's Stags Leap estate vineyard. -- Antonio Galloni

(96+ points) Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the deep garnet-purple colored 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve comes bounding out of the glass with exuberant scents of blackcurrant cordial, stewed plums and blueberry preserves, plus an undercurrent of tobacco leaf, wild sage, iron ore and crushed rocks with a hint of pencil shavings. The full-bodied palate is laden with black and blue fruit preserves, supported by lovely tension and a firm frame of grainy tannins, finishing long and lively.- LPB

Very lush, featuring warm cassis, plum compote and blackberry puree flavors that flow through slowly but steadily, with dark licorice snap and apple wood notes. Delivers a late tug of warm earth, which is hidden amid the fruit but keeps it all nicely grounded. A big wine. Best from 2023 through 2036. — J.M.