Winemaker Natalie Bath has crafted a lovely Cabernet Sauvignon balanced by 7% Cabernet Franc, exuding the elegance of better Oakville sites and the depth and complexity possible from this AVA. Leads with ripe blackberry fruit and a dusting of pulverised red stones, along with a panoply of dried wild herbs. The medium-bodied palate reveals a lovely mix of wild berry fruit framed by sinewy tannins and resolving with tobacco, crushed cocoa nibs and a tangy blood orange acidity, all gliding to a spicy finish.

This has a nice deep well of warmed cassis and plum puree flavors, threaded deftly with a sweet tobacco hint that adds nice contrast. Shows a pretty backdrop of violet and singed alder on the finish. A deep, slow-moving but confident wine. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2024 through 2038. — J.M.