2018 BOND Pluribus

Black fruits, blueberries, smoked tobacco, iron, bay leaf, and Asian spice notes emerge from the 2018 Pluribus, which comes from more volcanic soils halfway up Spring Mountain. It offers full-bodied richness, a structured, deep, concentrated mouthfeel, terrific mid-palate, and one heck of a great finish. While the other releases here have some up-front appeal, this needs to be hidden for 4-5 years and will cruise for 20-30 years as well.

Pluribus refers to the Latin word for many and was chosen to signify the various facets involved in creating a fine wine.  Pluribus expresses the character of a 7-acre site located on the dramatic slopes of Spring Mountain, on the Western side of North Napa Valley.  The soil is comprised of red, iron-rich volcanic bedrock (very similar soil to St Eden despite different location).  A breathtaking mountainous site with steep exposures to the north, east and south-east. The vineyard is surrounded by a conifer forest and the vines are protected by afternoon shade.  Pluribus is highest of the five Bond sites, at an elevation around 1,000 feet. Fuller, slightly more oxidative style. Deep purple hue. Massive concentration and chunky dark fruits, rounded oak, powerfully structured, a blockbuster style. Great purity of fruit. Intriguing leady aftertaste. But still retains some elegance and freshness on the finish. Very classy, beautifully made. (AWH)

The 2018 Pluribus captures all of the savory, mineral intensity of this site on Spring Mountain. Searing tannins, once such a challenge here, are much more finessed than in the past. Crushed rocks, mint, blood orange, gravel, exotic spice and rose petal lend tremendous complexity as the Pluribus shows off its considerable allure. This taut, mountain Cabernet Sauvignon has so much to offer. Today, it is wonderfully complete and thrilling. Even so, the best is yet to come.