Sourced from high in the Vaca Mountains (up to 2,500 feet above sea level), the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Juliet—96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, aged 22 months in 84% new French oak—boasts expressive scents of dark cassis, pencil shavings and licorice on the nose. Full-bodied and concentrated, bolstered by ripe, silky tannins, this super effort from winemaker Julian Fayard finishes with ample length and just a touch of warmth.- JC

From a rugged site atop the western slopes of the Vaca Mountains. Explosive nose of baked red and black fruit, freshly tilled earth,and cherry liqueur. Impressive depth on entry, leading with blackberry, blackcurrants, spiced plums and muscular tannins layered with rich fig paste. Vanilla and salty dark chocolate linger on the finish.

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Signature Series Juliet borders on over-ripeness but stays in check. Plums, chocolate, and darker berries all emerge from the glass, and it’s concentrated, round, and mouth-filling on the palate. It’s best drunk in its youth.