2014 Accendo Cabernet Sauvignon

This was made in Angwin while the Wheeler Farms winery was being built, next to Raymond on Zinfandel Lane. Relatively pale crimson (for Napa). Pretty deep, bright crimson for, say, France. Very healthy-looking. Much more intense nose than the 2013, with the same balsam note, but with more lusciousness and layers – and more ripeness. Still quite youthful and sprightly. Dry, long finish and good potential. Still fairly embryonic. (JR)

Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon gives a deep garnet-purple color and leaps from the glass with notes of warm black currants and red currants preserves plus touches of sandalwood, cigar box, spice box, licorice and menthol and the faintest hints of forest floor and potpourri. Medium-bodied with a fantastic intensity of red and black fruits and accented with pepper, spice and earthy notions, it has a firm, chewy backbone and great freshness, finishing with lingering mineral notes.

The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is a big step up from the 2013. Powerful, classy and refined, the 2014 offers notable intensity, but in the mid-weight, restrained style that has always characterized Bart and Daphne Araujo's wines. The flavors are bright and infused with striking savory overtones. Scents of tobacco, leather, licorice and smoke add nuance to the dark, explosive finish. There is plenty to look forward to.