2018 Aperture Bordeaux Red Blend Alexander Valley

WA96+ The 2018 Red Blend is composed of 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 22% Malbec, 3% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. The nose offers vibrant berry scents with accents of charcuterie, mint chocolate, cigar wrapper, violets and pencil shavings aromas, and the palate is powerful but featherweight, silky and fresh with a very long, layered finish. I love this balance of ripe fruit, mineral nuance, aromatic purity and structural power. This has the potential to grow into even more of a beauty with some time in bottle.
Estate Notes: A stunning expression of our most complex Bordeaux blend,  this wine is composed of one-third cabernet sauvignon, one-third merlot and expertly balanced by the remaining blend of malbec, cabernet franc and petit verdot. Aged 18 months, 50% New Oak, 60 gallon French Oak Barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. The vineyard: This wine is composed of all hillside vineyards which helps to keep berry size down and concentration strong. The sites are south and southeast facing for the early ripening varietals.