Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) has terrific energy to play off a core of rich Napa Valley fruit. Red cherry, iron, menthol, licorice and pretty floral accents all grace this gorgeous entry-level offering. The 2019 is the first vintage that includes fruit from Red Hen, a site in Oak Knoll that formerly belonged to Bart and Daphne Aruajo. Bright red fruit and lifted floral notes frame the chiseled finish nicely.

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec. It is due to age in oak for 18 months, in 48% new (58% French, 42% American) and 52% two-year-old French and American oak barrels. Deep garnet-purple in color, it rolls effortlessly out of the glass with beautifully pure notes of fresh black plums, black cherries and crushed blackcurrants plus hints of cinnamon stick, tobacco leaf and charcoal. Medium to full-bodied, the palate hits the ground running with expressive black fruits and soft, supple tannins, lifted by just enough freshness and finishing pleasantly savory. 40,000 are due to be made. (Tasted as a barrel sample.)

A year-in, year-out winner, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley should easily be an outstanding wine capable of evolving for two decades or so. Deep ruby/purple, with classy notes of cassis, blackberries, green tobacco, cedary herbs, and flowers, it's medium to full-bodied and has a wonderfully elegant, seamless texture, supple tannins, and outstanding length.

Dark, with a flicker of charcoal weaving amid steeped plum, loganberry, black currant and boysenberry fruit flavors. Features flashes of sweet bay leaf and licorice root that underline the briary finish, which has good energy. Best from 2023 through 2034. 40,000 cases made.