2017 Macauley Cabernet Sauvignon ‘Reserve’ Napa Valley

The blend for this Reserve moves slightly every year, and the 2017 has zeroed in on a few very attractive vineyards, comprised of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon from Oakville and 5% Petit Verdot from a gem at the north end of Pope Valley. A very deliberate wine built carefully over 28 months; this Reserve stares back at you with deep, dark violet eyes. The nose is wide awake with scents of ripe raspberry, dried plum, coffee char and hints of vanilla and toffee. With time, steadily swirling in the glass, she opens like a flower and more primary dark fruit aromas rise up to the brim. The palate is full of youth and very fresh. In fact, it is still tight at such a young age, showing a 20-plus year potential. With one taste of well-marbled steak, the mouthfeel will show beautiful richness and detail of dried black cherry, black berry, cocoa and cola bean. The Reserve is also always aged in 100% new French oak, unfiltered and unfined. 262 cases produced