2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson
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Tasting notes
From a site on Pritchard Hill, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard combines Clones 7 and 337 under the masterful winemaking hand of Thomas Rivers Brown. This shows wonderfully pure notes of blackberries and cassis on the nose. Classically proportioned, it's medium to full-bodied and firmly structured, the long finish laced with dusty, cocoa-powder tannins. While too young to drink now, it should be at least a 20-year wine.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard is a brilliant follow up to the magical 2018. Bright and sculpted in the glass, the 2019 is going to need a number of years to fully come together. All the elements are there for that to happen. Crushed rocks, red/purplish fruit, gravel, espresso, white pepper and toasty French oak infuse the 2019 with layers of depth and complexity. Spice, leather and tobacco appear later, adding nuance. This towering, majestic hillside Cabernet is truly special.
Lastly, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard is in the same realm, offering a heavenly perfume of blackcurrants, iron, tobacco, and subtle earthy, foresty nuances. With an undeniable sense of minerality, medium to full body, flawless balance, ripe tannins, and one heck of a great finish, this is another awesome Cabernet from this team that will evolve for 20-30 years.