2019 Titus "Imperatus" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

There are still a few late-released 2019 Cabernets hitting the market, including the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Imperatus. All Cabernet Sauvignon from the Sugarloaf Vineyard, it spent 30 months in 100% new Remond barrels before being bottled in May 2021. Inky in the glass, it offers up deep, sweet-smelling notes of blueberries, plums and loamy earth, accented by hints of camphor, molasses and vanilla. Full-bodied, concentrated and rich on the palate without being heavy, it's supple, the plentiful tannins leaving behind a softly dusty feel on the prolonged finish. Reasonably priced by Napa Valley standards and given its limited production (103 cases), it's available only through the winery and website. Kudos to winemaker Stephen Cruzan. (JC)