This has a very attractive, fresh array of ripe dark-berry and cherry aromas with notes of purple olives, stones and iodine. There are such fine tannins here with a very fluid, concentrated build of pure, fresh dark berries. Impressive. Drink or hold.

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon (Howell Mountain) is a powerful, dense wine endowed with tremendous concentration. Even so, the Howell Mountain tannins are nicely tamed. Ripe black cherry, black plum, espresso, spice, leather, graphite and dried flowers give the wine its mysterious, somber feel. Readers will find a gorgeous Cabernet that offers superb depth, but also more plushness and early appeal than is typical of Howell Mountain wines. One of the most distinctive signatures of the Howell Mountain Cabernet is the significant presence of blenders - in this vintage, all seven of the Bordeaux red varieties. The blend is 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Malbec, 5% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, 3% Saint-Macaire, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Carménère. (AG)

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Malbec, 4% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% St. Macaire, 1% Cabernet Franc and 2% Carmenere. It was aged for 22 months in French oak, 22% new. Very deep purple-black colored, it rolls easily out of the glass with pronounced notions of creme de cassis, baked plums and blueberry compote with hints of vanilla pod, dark chocolate, camphor and charcuterie plus a waft of cedar chest. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid backbone of rugged tannins and bold acidity supporting the intense savory/earthy flavors, finishing with good length and expression, if just a little firm and rustic. (LPB) 90+