Aromas of blackberries, graphite, and lead pencil. Fresh and dried flowers and iron shavings. Full bodied, layered, tight and solid. Beautiful and very poised and thoughtful. Hints of fresh herbs, from lavender to lemon grass. Compressed. Great length and focus. Drink after 2022.

The 2016s from Brad Grimes are all incredible wines that show the purity and balance of the vintage as well as the power and depth the Grimms always seems to find. Starting with the 2016 Cappella, it’s a more Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend and comes from a tiny vineyard just west of St. Helena. It has a deep ruby/plum color as well as a powerful bouquet of blackcurrants, caramelized meats, spice box, and chocolaty herbs. This full-bodied, deep, concentrated 2016 just glides over the palate with no sensation of weight or heaviness. It has the vintage’s more supple, seamless style and already offers pleasure. Nevertheless, it’s going to keep for 20-30 years.

From a 5.5-acre vineyard most recently replanted in 2000 on the west side of St. Helena, Abreu's 2016 Cappella Proprietary Red boasts gentle cedar and vanilla notes overlaid on cinnamon-dusted cherries. It's full-bodied, warm, rich and dense—even a bit fudge-like—on the palate, but there's also a sense of zesty brightness on the lingering finish to provide a sense of balance.