2018 La Magdalena

Next up, the 2018 La Magalena comes from the Oakville Ranch Vineyard and in 2018 is a blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Incredible notes of crème de cassis, blueberries, tobacco leaf, violets, and spring flowers all emerge from this beauty, and it hits the palate with flawless balance, full-bodied richness, a great, great mid-palate, and a finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. Probably a candidate for perfection in 5-7 years, this is a magical Bordeaux blend from an incredible terroir as well as a great winemaker. Hide bottles in the cellar for 5-7 years, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following 30 years or more.

The Favia 2018 La Magdalena is a powerhouse. Huge swaths of tannin wrap around a core of inky dark red fruit as this hulking Cabernet Franc-based wine starts to open in the glass. Readers will have to be patient with the 2018, as it is rather imposing at this stage. Mocha, dried rose petal, spice and a whole range of savory notes linger. All I can say is: Wow!

The 2018 La Magdalena is one of the most polished wines I have ever tasted here. Favia's Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc blend pulses with intensity from start to finish. In 2018, La Magdalena appears to be a bit more nuanced than in the past. There is plenty of power, but less of the bombastic intensity that has marked some previous editions. Mocha, espresso and floral notes wrap around a core of dark fruit effortlessly.