2022 Nosotros Cabernet Sauvignon, Mt. Veeder

The palate echoes the aromatic intensity, delivering a focused and layered cascade of dark fruit flavors. Blackberry, cassis, and dark cherry are at the forefront, coating the mouth with concentrated fruit purity and a vibrant energy. The oak influence is skillfully integrated, contributing seamless layers of baking spice, dark chocolate, and a touch of vanilla cream. Distinctive savory notes of graphite, crushed stone, and a hint of dried sage emerge as the wine evolves on the palate, providing further depth and complexity characteristic of Mt. Veeder Cabernet. The fruit richness is beautifully balanced by bright, refreshing acidity, preventing any sense of heaviness and ensuring a long, lively finish.

Appearance: Deeply saturated ruby to purple core, radiating outwards to a vibrant, youthful garnet rim. The wine showcases excellent density and concentration, evidenced by its opaque color and slow, graceful tears down the glass, suggesting richness and substantial structure. Crystal clear and brilliant, reflecting meticulous winemaking and the purity of the mountain fruit.

Aroma: The nose is immediately engaging and intensely aromatic, revealing the unique terroir of Mt. Veeder. Lifted aromas of fresh, ripe black fruits are prominent, led by blackcurrant, wild blackberry, and dark plum, beautifully interwoven with elegant notes from the high-quality French oak. Expect to find vanilla bean, clove spice, and cedar shavings, alongside subtle hints of cocoa nib and toasted hazelnut. Underlying the vibrant fruit and refined oak are intriguing nuances of crushed rock, graphite, and dried mountain herbs, adding complexity and a distinct savory, mineral edge that speaks to the sandstone and shale soils. The aroma is powerful yet focused, promising a wine of both intensity and mountain freshness.