Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (75cl, 14.5%)

A Bordeaux-style red blend from Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County, California, built around Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the eastern bench area of the valley, and after fermentation the wine ages for 19 months in French, American and Hungarian oak barrels. The blend typically comprises 80–85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12–15% Merlot, 2–5% Malbec, roughly 2% Cabernet Franc and 1–2% Petit Verdot. The nose opens with inky black currant and black cherry, with spearmint, cedar and a subtle herbal note. The palate is smooth and broad, with plum jam, dark berry fruit, cocoa powder, graphite, clove and cigar tobacco, supported by firm, well-integrated tannins and a vein of minerality. The finish is medium to long, with espresso, fine leather and dried herbs.