Heitz Cellar 'Trailside' Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

"Sleek and focused, with notes of damson plum, red currant coulis and dark cherry preserves corseted tightly with singed tobacco, cast iron and loam accents. Cedar and sanguine notes add a twang amid the dark fruit, giving the finish a mouthwatering edge. A little patience required. Best from 2026 through 2040. 4,627 cases made."

"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Trailside Vineyard comes from a site off the Silverado Trail, not far from Mumm. Gentle herbal notes of bay leaf or mint accent cherries on the nose, giving it an almost medicinal tinge, while the medium-bodied palate is silky but firm, bright, cool and refreshing on the finish."

"The 2018 Trailside Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is deep garnet-purple in color. Notes of black cherries, blackcurrant pastilles, and ripe plums hop from the glass, leading to hints of cedar chest, dried mint, and Indian spices. The medium-bodied palate is spicy and vibrant, with a firm structure of grainy tannins and refreshing acidity, finishing on a lingering cedar and spice note."

"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Trailside Vineyard is a powerful, deep and expressive Rutherford offering. Dark-toned fruit, spice, leather, tobacco and mocha lend considerable complexity. There's a bit of new oak that needs to integrate, but this is nicely done. The 2018 offers an intriguing mix of classicism and modern flash."