2023 Waterhorse Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon

13.6% alc. - One of the coolest climate Cabernet vineyards in California, the vines at Waterhorse Ridge are 25 years old and produce one of the freshest, most unique Cabernet Sauvignons in the world. 2023 was another light crop at Waterhorse Ridge. This probably turned out to be a blessing in disguise, helping the vineyard to ripen in such a cool growing season. The wine is fascinating. On the one hand it presents very classical in style, with traditional notes such as graphite and cedar - on the other it drinks with a richness and completeness that comes across as quite modern. Best of both worlds? I'll leave that for you to decide, but the 23 is supple enough out of the gate to be enjoyable right now, with a balance and completeness that set it up for the long haul.

black cherry, violet, cassis, graphite, cedar, fresh tobacco, classic leaning in style, but complete and seamless from the nose through the finish