True to Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 is near black in color. The nose takes a moment to show itself, then cassis and blueberry pie followed by caramel, cocoa and volcanic earth all jump from the glass. The initial palate is soft and plush and then the tannins start to build. Firm mountain acidity helps attenuate the sizeable chalky tannins. The flavors on the palate move to black currant, cedar box and vanilla bean. This big, stunning wine needs time in bottle to reach its pinnacle. A minimum of 13-14 years would be ideal (2033-2034).
