2018 Corison Cabernet Sauvignon

Cathy Corison's 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon remains true to her own stylistic bent, weighing in at 13.8%. Hints of tobacco and crushed stone accent cassis, with minimal wood influence on the nose, despite it being aged 20 months in 50% new French oak. Medium to full-bodied, it's concentrated, silky, long and elegant, a balanced, refreshing alternative to much of what Napa has to offer these days.

Full bottle 1,332 g. Made from ' three great benchland vineyards between Rutherford and St Helena'. Mid crimson. Aromatic with ripe but modulated cassis fruit and a hint of balsam. Non showy. Some fine sandpaper tannins still in evidence and a really refreshing finish. Made for the table with impressive refinement. I'd decant it this year and next. (JR)

I always love the wines from Cathy Corison, and 2018 is a vintage that certainly plays to her strengths with its classic, elegant style. Looking at her 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, this medium ruby/purple-colored effort offers an old school bouquet of red and black currants, menthol, spring flowers, and violets to go with a medium-bodied, elegant style on the palate. It’s not a blockbuster, but it offers medium-bodied richness, terrific overall balance, seamless tannins, and a great finish. Drink this classic, balanced, satisfying Cabernet from Corison over the coming 15 years or so.