2018 Favia "Cerro Sur" Napa Valley Red Blend

“More meaty notes of red and black currants, mulled cherries, tobacco, roasted herbs, and chocolate emerge from the 2018 Cerro Sur, and this beauty brings full-bodied richness, plenty of mid-palate depth, and building tannins on the palate. This rich, meaty, expansive, beautifully textured 2018 has plenty of up-front appeal yet should benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and cruise for 15-20 years in cold cellars. (JD)” (01/2021)

“Fascinating aromas of plums, sweet tobacco and iron follow through to a full body with density and agility that give this young red energy and brightness. Chewy tannins, yet they are polished and lightly dusty. Flavorful finish. Tight at the end. Give this three to four years to open.” (10/2021)

“A brooding wine, the 2018 Cerro Sur is decidedly dark and potent in feel. Blackberry jam, grilled herbs, licorice and cloves all add to its inward, virile personality. I imagine the 2018 will be superb in another few years, but I also imagine it will always be a rather somber wine. Time in the glass does wonders, but I would plan on a few years of cellaring. 96+ (AG)” (09/2020)

“A blend of 80% Cabernet Franc and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 Cerro Sur Red Wine matured in 50% new French oak. Floral and herbal on the nose, it boasts impressively intricate detail, accenting gentle cherry notes. It's medium to full-bodied, silky and fine, with notes reminiscent of cocoa powder, both texturally and flavor wise. Long, elegant and balanced, with hints of mocha on the finish, it is a fine expression of Cabernet Franc and largely sourced from Rancho Chimiles, where old Franc vines grow on north-facing slopes at 1,000 feet above sea level. (JC)” (03/2023)

“Dense cassis and plum purée notes drive through, inlaid with a dark tobacco note and flashes of iron. Ample grip from the start, with everything knitting wonderfully through the lush finish, where a kiss of mocha lands gently. A rock-solid offering. Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. (JM)” (10/2021)