The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon includes slightly less Cabernet than normal and is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc. It has loads of cassis and black raspberry fruits as well as gorgeous incense, dried violets, vanilla, and flowery spice overtones. About as seamless as it gets, with full body and present yet sweet tannins, it’s a beautiful, elegant wine from this remarkable site sitting above Oakville.

A deep, complex nose of blackberry, turned earth, walnut oil and dried thyme. Supple and round on the palate, with less austerity than in other recent vintages. Shows the classic red-fruited, chewy tannins of Eastern Oakville in a more accessible package, making it the most drinkable of the young Dalla Valle Cabernets.

Very spicy and smoky on the nose. Lots of cassis but also woody herbs on the nose. Powerful, complex and enticing aromas. The palate has a metallic edge, with bloody, ripe cassis at the core. Tannins coat the mouth but they are glossy and ripe, adding to the opulent nature of this wine. Heady and powerful, this is all about concentration. (TP)