2019 Few and Far Between Cabernet Sauvignon

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 Few and Far Between opens with an incredible array of savory/meaty notes over a core of cassis, black plum preserves, and kirsch with blueberry compote, tar, and rocks plus a waft of black olives. The full-bodied palate is super-concentrated, taut, and tightly wound with seamless freshness, finishing long and layered with earthy notes.

Pure, lively, and lifted, with an infusion of creamy blackberry, blueberry, and black cherry fruit on both the nose and palate. Gorgeously subtle whispers of cedar spices, white truffle, and sagebrush layer in harmonic nuances. At 16.1% alcohol, there isn�t even a hint of heat, and owner-winemaker Jayson Woodbridge explains that no matter what they do, they can�t seem to achieve the phenolic ripeness he�s after under 16%, but it�s moot because the balance is so impressive he should be teaching a masterclass on the subject. The wine is reservedly powerful, with the utmost elegance, harmonious acidity and nobly ripe tannins, which are smooth and fine, conferring a seamless tasting experience. Few and Far Between is Hundred Acre�s estate 2 hectare vineyard surrounding the Woodbridge home in Calistoga and shares a fence line with Eisele Vineyard. Planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and one �Home Block� of Cabernet Franc, which abuts the veranda of the Woodridge home, the final blend includes some of the Franc. Owner-winemaker Jayson Woodbridge ages this wine up to 30 months in French oak barriques.

My favorite of the extensive range of wines presented on this occasion, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Few and Far Between masterfully combines dusty loam notes with hints of sage and dark chocolate, then backs those savory nuances with layers of ripe cherries, black cherries and even something akin to boysenberries. It's a full-bodied, silky effort, tannic yet ripe, with a long, elegant finish. It's impressively complex, impeccably balanced and just a fantastic drink. (JC)