2012 JCB The Surrealist

This wine from Jean-Charles Boisset comes in dramatic packaging, which no doubt can distract from the ultimate quality of what’s in the bottle. A Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon from St. Helena and some Petit Verdot from high-elevation vineyards in eastern Napa, the wine has a dense ruby/purple color and a beautiful, pure crème de cassis nose with some floral notes in the background. Nicely integrated oak, tannin and acidity result in a full-bodied, opulent, complex and impressive wine to drink over the next 15 or more years.