2018 Montepeloso Gabbro

The 2018 Gabbro (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) is quite possibly the most elegant wine I have ever tasted at Montepeloso. Inky black cherry, chocolate, grilled herb, licorice and menthol infuse the 2018 with fabulous depth. Even with all of its opulence, the 2018 remains so poised and light on its feet. The new oak needs just a bit of time to settle. There is little doubt the 2018 is an absolutely gorgeous wine in the making. It’s a reference point expression of Cabernet Sauvignon on the Tuscan coast.

The 2018 Gabbro is a pure expression of Cabernet Sauvignon, with only 1,400 bottles made. There is a lot of coastal Tuscan sunshine here that smooths over the fruit, adding richness, integration, ripeness and ultimately a terrific sense of balance. Summery black tones of plum, prune, blackberry and dried cherry emerge from the bouquet, pulling forth background tones of spice, tobacco and campfire ash. The wine is full and rich throughout, showing generous layers on the mid-palate and on the very long and pleasurable finish. The tannins are soft and balanced (from both the fruit and the oak), but I'd still recommend a few more years of bottle age before you pop the cork.

The 2018 Gabbro pulses with palpable energy and tension. The wine feels so alive. Cabernet Sauvignon can be wonderfully expressive, and this is a great example. Sage, mint, lavender, pine and dark spice lead into a core of crème de cassis and inky dark fruit. Like all of the 2018s, Gabbro is a bit on the more restrained side, but that is not a bad thing for a region where size and richness come so easily.