2018 Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon Cherryblock Sonoma Valley

Cherryblock is the flagship wine of Sebastiani. With the 2018 vintage, three-quarters of the fruit is from the winery’s Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon blocks planted in 1961. The final blend is 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, and 2% Malbec, aged 18 months in 56% new French oak. The rest is from younger vines from their estate. This is one of my favourite Cabernet blends from Sonoma. It consistently hits high marks of quality. Alluring turned earth notes mingle with black truffle, black currants, and sweet tobacco. Medium to full-bodied. Candied red berry fruit is supported by supple tannins, while notes of crushed cocoa nibs, bay laurel, white pepper, and sage linger on the extended finish.