INGLENOOK Cabernet Sauvignon

WA: 92

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it springs from the glass with vibrant notes of crushed black raspberries, black plums and blackcurrant pastilles, plus hints of underbrush and bouquet garni. Medium to full-bodied with intense, pure black fruit flavors, the fruit is well-framed by ripe, grainy tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing with a skip in its step.

VM: 94

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most potent wines I have tasted from Inglenook in a long time. Readers should be patient, as the 2019 is a mere infant. A rush of black cherry, mocha, licorice, spice and leather builds as this sumptuous, towering wine gradually opens with a bit of aeration. I would give the 2019 at least a few years in bottle, as the grippy tannins need time to soften.

WS: 92

Leads with a nice sweet bay leaf hint, followed quickly by singed cedar and loam before the core of reserved red and black currant fruit finally starts to unfold. Warm earth-framed finish. A touch old school, with some muscular character. This should age nicely. Best from 2024 through 2034. 10,300 cases made.