2016 DeLille Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Four Flags

Bright ruby-red. Blackberry, licorice, black pepper and minerals on the nose. Densely packed, fine-grained and nicely concentrated but a bit youthfully unforthcoming today, showing limited sweetness and early appeal. I find this a bit peppery, if not lean, in the early going, with a distinct coolness in the style of some '16s. Finishes savory and persistent, with a smooth dusting of tannins and some peppery herbs in a varietal way. Lay this one down. (made from three clones)

Named for the four famous vineyards on Red Mountain, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Four Flags immediately shows power and elegance on the nose, with a fresh core of fruit and minerality, showcasing rich and velvety oak tones. The wine is rich and complex on the medium to full-bodied palate that's overflowing and expressive, with good depth and breadth, balanced tannins and the lifting support of oak spices and energetic acidity. It lingers long, with a tannic edge that will settle down with time, making it ready for food now. Only 1,500 bottles were produced. I recommend securing some for yourself before they are all gone!

One of the gems in the lineup is the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Four Flags. This thrilling, sensational Cabernet Sauvignon has a beautiful perfume of red currants, spice box, new leather, and dried flowers. Medium to full-bodied, seamless, and thrillingly textured, it offers balance, remarkable purity, and a finish that won’t quit. While Red Mountain is known for producing powerful, structured wines, this is all about finesse and elegance. It will drink nicely for two decades.