Valdemar Estates Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 (750ml) Charentais

Valdemar Estates Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 (750ml) CharentaisThis mlange of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 12% Malbec is aged for 19 months in 25% new French oak barrels and gifts a dark purple and ruby core with a lighter fluorescent blue rim. Its a chewy, dense, and massive wine on the palate with notes of braised black plum, basked boysenberry pie, sweet tobacco leaf, cedary herbs, and cinnamon stick. Tannins are sweet but very grippy, while the elevated acidity balances everything out. Better in

or any moment that calls for something bright

crystalline and more intellectual compared to the Badstube

with notes of coffee and vanilla from the oak barrels

So to illustrate the 1998 vintage they gave us “Brindis”

elegance and restraint

bringing a sense of liveliness

Excellent as an aperitif or to accompany grilled vegetables

prior to the French Revolution

and ultra-fine tannins

96+  [Inner quote mark]  (5/2021)

vibrant acidity and finishes with a subtle smokiness

The 2004 Flaccianello della Pieve is super elegant