Chappellet Winery, Signature Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019

"Heady and ripe, floral and open on the nose with aromas of cedar, sweet strawberries, spiced plum and herbal-edged raspberries. Crisp and juicy, tight and tense - the tannins have a firm aspect to them really giving this a coiled, concentrated, knitted texture and frame where the dark, ripe fruit drives through the centre but there's lots of liquorice, dark chocolate and clove spice giving the angles and nuance, almost overtaking the fruit. Still, it's well constructed, smooth and long with lovely integrity of juiciness. Lots of Petit Verdot character also gives the singularity and signature. A fine wine with lots to like. Stylish, sophisticated and suave. 3% Merlot completes the blend. Winemaker Phillip Corallo-Titus. 3.78pH."

"First time on the Place, and an exciting addition from the brilliant Chappellet, with grapes for this wine grown on the rocky soils of Pritchard Hill. Good choice to come on board wth the lusciously balanced and European-friendly 2019 vintage, and this is so good, with brushed velvet tannins, chocolate drops, smoked earth and plentiful black cherry and damson fruits with a sculpted steady lift through the finish. Easy to enjoy, with just the right amount of reserve, Phillip Corallo-Titus has again crafted one of the Napa's best value Cabernets, and it's a no-brainer to recommend."