2012 Outpost Cabernet Sauvignon True Vineyard

There are 375 cases of the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon True Vineyard, which is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 90% new French oak. This cuvée ratchets up the levels of structure and tannin, but shares similar notes of blackberries, blueberries, floral, forest floor and spice. It is a broad-flavored, multidimensional wine built like a skyscraper. However, unlike the regular Cabernet Sauvignon, this offering requires patience because of some significant tannin. Forget it for 4-5 years and drink it over the next two decades.

Deep, bright ruby. Reticent but vibrant aromas of dark berries, licorice, herbs and minerals. Boasts lovely ripeness and silkiness of texture, but the flavors are a bit subdued today and the wine comes across as less showy than the True Immigrant. But this is ultimately lusher and more concentrated, showing serious weight without any heaviness. The substantial ripe tannins are well supported by the wine's extract. Very impressive potential but this will require at least five or six years of bottle aging. In recent years, Outpost has become one of the elite producers on Howell Mountain.

A remarkably finessed, sophisticated Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon True Vineyard has it all; expressive aromatics, great purity of fruit and plenty of underlying structure. Black cherries, plums, orange peal and white pepper all meld together in a Cabernet that showcases the explosive yet sensual side of the vintage on Howell Mountain.