2013 Darioush "Darius II" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2014 'Darius II' is a masterful wine from winemaker Steve Devitt and consultant Michel Rolland. The final blend is composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon with 6% Malbec and 4% Merlot that was primarily sourced from their Mt. Veeder estate. Deep and intense, this stunning wine begins with profound aromatics of crème de cassis, black currants, rose petals, anise, pencil shavings and sweet pipe tobacco. The mouthfeel is plush and layered, as it shows off a remarkable fleshy character, with flavors of black tea, mocha, mint, crème de cassis, anise and wild blackberry preservers, which continue to build on the palate. This is a memorable and simply fascinating wine from Darioush in this vintage. (OB)