Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Robert Mondavi 2018

A classic! Well balanced with good complexity and lots of structure. Showing a good representation of the terroir. Like a Left Bank Bordeaux on a riper vintage. Somehow the character of Captain America comes to mind. Strong, Just, Charismatic, Disciplined, and Courageous.  This regional expression actually includes fruits taken from Oakville and Stag’s Leap including from To Kalon and Wappo Hill! Happy 4th of July my friends south of the border. Just so happens I opened this today, this was not on purpose.

Blend:

87% Cabernet Sauvignon
5% Merlot
4% Petit Verdot
3% Cabernet Franc
1% Malbec

Colour: Deep Ruby, almost opaque with dark core and a thing watery rim.

Nose: Medium+ Intensity,  fresh, lively, but sophisticated.

Flavours: 

Primary: Fresh ripe, almost jam-like Black cherry, black currant, raspberry, plum, coffee, celery, mint, cedar, tree bark, violet

Secondary: Smoke, Oak spices, vanilla, 

Tertiary: Prune, raisin, smoked meat, earth, and freshly picked mushroom.

Palate: Bright, substantial, complex, full

Acidity: Medium+ Fresh and Bright

Tannins: Thick and grippy, almost velvety

Body: Medium+ body, shows weight but not weighty

Alcohol: 14.5% Warming but subtle and balanced

Finish: Long, subtle, minty.

Complexity: Quite complex with varietally well defined and harmonized.  Some complexity goes into the finish.

Intensity: Good amount of intensity showing quite some optimally ripen fruits.

Balance: Well balanced. The vibrancy of the flavours and acidity is balanced with the body and tannins.