Somewhat closed-in to start with toasty, slightly creamy oak in the lead, the nose does open with airing and fruit finds its place as co-equal partner. Fairly precise varietal notes of currants and black cherry also slowly make themselves known on the palate where the wine's youthfully gruff exterior occludes a burgeoning sense of suppleness that seems sure to grow in prominence with the five to seven years of cellaring that are demanded here. And do not be surprised if the wine lasts a lot longer-quite possibly reaching far into its second decade.

Reviewed: August 2017

Very deep purple-black in color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Vintner's Select reveals a nose of crème de cassis, baked plums and blueberry pie with touches of cedar chest, dark chocolate, charcuterie and Chinese five spice. Medium to full-bodied, it fills the palate with youthful black and blue fruits, framed by firm, grainy tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long and spicy. 603 cases were made.

Medium-dark ruby; attractive, fragrant, black cherry, blackberry, and cassis aroma with hints of espresso, green olive, sandalwood, and dried herbs; full body; deep, intense, cedary, black fruit flavors that finish a bit tight; full tannin and slightly mouth drying on the finish; lingering aftertaste. Very highly recommended, though while showing rich Cabernet fruit with very good varietal character, our tasting panel members had mixed opinions on the tannin level with some of our tasters thinking it was too high. 14.6% alcohol; 603 cases; 100% CS; released January 2017. (Group Score: 16.4, 1/0/1; My Score: 17.5 [93/100], first place)

The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Vintners Select Cuvee is a step up over the straight Cabernet Sauvignon and has more mid-palate depth as well as length. Blackcurrants, black raspberries, graphite, toasted spice and violet notes all emerge from this full-bodied, beautifully concentrated Cabernet. With ripe, yet firm tannin, notable purity and freshness, and a great finish, it’s high-class stuff that will keep for 15-20 years or more.