2021 Aperture "Farrow Ranch" Estate Series Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

This is electric stuff that simply erupts on the nose with aromas of black plums, crushed cherries, coffee and fresh leather. The palate possesses massive tannic structure, but an almost ethereal, lifted quality. Flavors of Bing cherry, blackberry coulis, cinnamon, and chocolate move energetically through the finale. This showstopper will be best after at least ten years in the cellar. *Cellar Selection* (TRC)

The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Farrow Ranch is entirely Cabernet Sauvignon grown on volcanic soils and was raised in 80% new French oak. They opted not to make this wine in 2020 due to the effects of the fires, and this is a spectacular return for the wine. It pours an opaque red color and takes some time to coax open in the glass as it begins to reveal a more brooding, introspective profile, with sappy notes of lavender oils, menthol, blackcurrant, leather, and toasted cedar. Fleshy and full, it fills the palate and builds in structure through the mid-palate, with an underlying gravelly texture, and a long, earth-toned finish. It demands time in the cellar to unfurl and release some of its grip. (AF)