2023 Assiduous "Bates Ranch" Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon

From a Prudy Foxx-farmed site, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Bates Ranch Vineyard is full-bodied and youthfully fruity on the nose, made from a 50-50 selection of both old and new vines. The older vines give it leathery tobacco-like savory flavors and a supple mouthfeel, while featuring ample palate length, weight, and good, strong tannins. Dusty cocoa flavors coat the palate as it opens, as gorgeous aromatics of sage and cassis rise in intensity. The wine is aged 16 months in American oak, 20% new. Bates continues to be one of the standard-bearers of classic Cabernet in the Santa Cruz Mountains at an approachable price. Drink now through 2035.