The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Houyi Vineyard from Sire is a potent, explosive wine loaded with all the character that makes this hillside site in the Vaca Mountains so distinctive. Graphite, licorice, mocha, chocolate, clove and blackberry jam infuse the 2018 with tremendous nuance as well as character. This mountain Cabernet Sauvignon needs time (or a good decant) to soften, but it is super impressive. For readers who don't know Houyi, its neighbors are Colgin, David Arthur and Brand. This is a tremendous showing. - Antonio Galloni

From Pritchard Hill, with winemaking by Julien Fayard, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Houyi Vineyard delivers scents of crushed stone, pencil shavings, cassis, black cherries and dark chocolate. A full-bodied effort marked by velvety tannins and a fine sense of balance, it's approachable now, but it should still be drinking well a decade or more hence. 227 cases produced.- Joe Czerwinski

Attractive aromas of crushed blackcurrants and blueberries with hints of mint, dried flowers and licorice. Soft and rich on the palate with plush tannins and full body. Lasts long, with a warming sensation on the aftertaste. A little heavy. Try in 2023.