2014 Fenix

Composed of 54% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2014 Fenix has a medium garnet-purple color and nose of crushed black plums, blackberry compote and mulberries with hints of Chinese five spice, garrigue, rare beef and dried Mediterranean herbs. The medium-bodied palate struts a lot of showy black fruit and spicy layers, with velvety tannins and lovely freshness paving the long finish.

The 2014 Fenix is another ripe, polished wine that has classic varietal character. Made from 54% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc and the balance Petit Verdot, its deep ruby color is followed by notes of black cherries, plums, damp earth and dark chocolate. It shows the 2014 charm and is medium to full-bodied, supple and elegant on the palate, with some tannin that has bite on the finish. Give it a year or so and drink through 2024. It’s always a fun tasting with winemaker Matt Dees and his team, and they continue to keep this estate at the top of the hierarchy in Santa Barbara County. Located in Ballard Canyon AVA, they pull only from their estate vineyard (planted on incredibly sandy soils) and make a wide range of cuvées, from a red and white Bordeaux blends, to a 100% Petit Verdot, Sangiovese and a number of terrific Rhône blends. The common thread is incredible quality.