Review: Brandlin Estate 2018 Henry's Keep Proprietary Red Mount Veeder, Napa Valley ($115)

 This blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Malbec, 3% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot could be labeled as a Cabernet Sauvignon, but I assume veteran winemaker Steve Rogstad wants some blending flexibility for future editions, so it is simply called a "proprietary red" blend. The real beauty of the wine is that it perfectly captures the terroir of Brandlin Estate on Mount Veeder at the southwestern end of the Mayacamas range. Mt. Veeder delivers great concentration, but fragrant wines that aren't heavy on the palate. That is exactly what you get here. The nose is of dried flowers with hints of madrone and mocha, and the winery describes the red and black currant fruit notes as "shimmering," which is pretty close to a perfect description. This gorgeous red is as feathery as it is powerful, and that's what Mt. Veeder does best. (94 Points)

Review: Spottswoode 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Napa Valley ($225)

 

This cracking Napa Cabernet from St. Helena star Spottswoode is very much a baby, and drinking it now is definitely robbing the cradle. It has intense aromas of black fruit, anise, cocoa, and vanilla and a deep core of black currant with hints of kirsch and raspberry. As much as it's a very powerful wine, it also has lively acidity and a freshness and balance to it that's a hallmark of Spottswoode's excellent wine making program. I think this release has a bright future after another couple of years in the bottle. (97 Points)

- Tim Teichgraeber