A barrel sample blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot and 9% Cabernet Franc, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals an inky purple-black color and beautiful nose of crushed black currants, warm blueberries and plums with hints of rose hip tea, violets, dark chocolate, baking spices and salami, plus a waft of forest floor. Full-bodied and intensely fruited in the mouth, it has a fantastically ripe, fine-grained frame of tannins and just enough freshness to lift the fruit to a long, perfumed finish. A singular wine.

Still quite dark-hued, youthful and primary, Spottswoode's 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon features loads of powerful black cherries and cassis. It's medium to full-bodied and nicely structured, with a bit more of an acid edge than some vintages, which beautifully complements the ripe, supple tannins and serves to lengthen and freshen the long, licorice-tinged finish. While approachable now, it should drink well for at least another 15 years.

Layered crimson. Balsam notes and really high-toned. Sweet start but not sickly (or alcoholic) in any way. Definitely Napa but beautifully balanced. Long and rich but so nuanced! Tea leaves. (JR)