Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Cellar for up to 15 years. Decant for up to 2 hours before serving. This Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic, deeply fruity Californian red, loaded with rich aromas of blackberry jam, cassis, and dark chocolate, with background notes of cedar and tobacco. It is actually a majority Cabernet blend, sporting splashes of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Malbec. The fruits were sourced from appellations all across California, including St. Helena, Stags Leap, and Rutherford. Joseph Phelps Vineyards was founded in 1973, by its eponymous trailblazing winemaker, who worked alongside Californian giants such as the omnipresent Robert Mondavi. Today, Joe Phelps still sets the benchmark for Napa Valley and Californian wine as a whole, through his incredible range of Bordeaux and Rhône-inspired reds. The Cabernet Sauvignon is sinewy and full-bodied in the mouth, redolent of blackcurrant, plum, dried herbs, and a selection of baking spices, such as cinnamon and vanilla. It was aged for 16 months in a mixture of French and American oak, old and new, imparting an oaky backbone and chewy tannins. Crisp acidity elevates the drinking experience and carries it through to the thirst-quenching finish. Think about pairing it with a grilled steak, lamb, or hard aged cheeses.

Price: £89.86 from 8wines UK