2016 Cakebread ‘Benchland Select’ Cabernet Sauvignon

JD95 The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Benchland Select is all Cabernet that spent 22 months in 61% new French oak. It’s similarly inky colored and has terrific, flowery blue and black fruits, loads of incense, spice, and tobacco, full body, building tannins, and a great, great finish. It’s another thrilling wine from this team that plays with the best of the best.
WA95 The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Benchland Select is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 65% of the fruit coming from Vine Hill Ranch. It was aged 22 months in French oak, 61% new. Very deep garnet-purple colored, the nose features very dark, serious, broody fruit notions of blackcurrant cordial, boysenberries and mulberries with nuances of cigar box, fungi, fertile loam and pencil lead plus a touch of tar. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a wonderfully plush texture with beautifully integrated freshness and a generous black-fruit core, finishing long with some spicy layers coming through.