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2018 Bella Oaks Rutherford Proprietary Red (lightly bin soiled label)

2018 Bella Oaks Rutherford Proprietary Red (lightly bin soiled label)

98JD
98RP
98VN
97DC
95WS

98

Jeb Dunnuck

Review Date: 01/2023

I loved the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, a remarkably complex, elegant wine that has so much to love. Cassis, black cherries, hints of black olive, chocolate, and ripe tobacco all define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with a concentrated, multi-dimensional character offering beautiful tannins and a great finish. Coming from a tiny site in Rutherford (east of Staglin) that was made famous by Joe Heitz’s single vineyard releases, this world-class beauty is based on 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Franc that was aged in 70% new oak. It’s approachable today yet I wouldn't be surprised to see it evolve for 30+ years if well stored. Nigel Kinsmen has been the winemaker here starting in 2017.

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Price: $279.99
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Professional Reviews

98

Wine Advocate

Review Date: 01/2021
The 2018 Proprietary Red Wine is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot and 8% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it slips slowly, sensuously out of the glass with expanding notions of blackcurrant pastilles, fresh, ripe blackberries and preserved black cherries with suggestions of iron ore, garrigue and dusty soil plus a waft of black olives. The full-bodied palate is tightly coiled with tons of black fruit and earthy layers supported by firm, finely grained tannins and bags of freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. A highly energetic wine with an amazing array of bright sparks—this is an absolute jaw-dropper! (LPB) 98+

98

Vinous

Review Date: 01/2021
A majestic, totally riveting wine, the 2018 Bella Oaks Proprietary Red Wine soars out of the glass with breathtaking aromatics. The 2018 reveals layer after layer of complexity with time in the glass in a stunning display that is hard to fully describe. Dark cherry/plum fruit, mocha, dried herb and floral notes build into the sensual, utterly riveting finish. This is a mind-blowing debut from proprietor Suzanne Deal Booth and winemaker Nigel Kinsman. Wow!! (AG)

97

Decanter

Review Date: 05/2023
The slow, steady progression of the legendary 2018 growing season shines through in this powerful but keenly sculpted wine. Piercing black cherry and plum flavours gain a brooding richness and peppery edge from the addition of 12% Petit Verdot and 8% Cabernet Franc, accented by burnt sugar, sage and mocha. Polished tannins and a fresh vein of acidity lend finesse and verve to the finish. Just approaching peak now, it should evolve beautifully for another decade and hold further still. (AI)
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Product Details

Origin: Napa Valley, California, United States

Type/Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon and Blends

SKU: #2017576

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