2017 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Malbec, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. Winter rains were much needed after three seasons of drought. A warm summer with regular heatwaves. A balance of waiting for fruit flavours against rising potential alcohol was the key to producing good wine in 2017. Here, harvest took place with strong selection, leading to low yields between 7  September and 7  October. Deep ruby. Oaky nose – sappy, toasty and modern. A little too charred but there is ripe fruit to match. Integrated ripe tannins, big black fruit at the core, and just a hint of warming alcohol. The oak really needs to integrate as there is a cherry-cola note on the finish. Perhaps it needs time? (TP)

The only wine here that has a touch of grower fruit, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley saw a two-thirds reduction in production due to declassifying due to smoke taint. It has a classic Cabernet nose of blackcurrants, scorched earth, tobacco, and lead pencil as well as a medium-bodied, supple, elegant, pretty style on the palate. Drink it over the coming 10-15 years.

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is soft, fruity and open-knit - all qualities that make it a good choice for drinking now and over the next few years. Dark cherry, leather, tobacco, espresso, cedar and menthol are nicely pushed forward. In tasting, the 2017 gives the impression that it will mature relatively quickly, so I wouldn't push my luck on aging, Production was down a whopping two-thirds.