Lail Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon J. Daniel Cuvee 2017

WA97: A barrel sample of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon expected to age 20 months in 75% new French oak (no Molehill vineyard was included in the blend this year due to smoke taint), the 2017 J. Daniel Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon is very deep—opaque—purple-black in color and incredibly youthful and primary at this stage, with vibrant notions of blackcurrant cordial, preserved plums, baked cherries and dried mulberries plus nuances of tar, licorice, cumin seed, cardamom and bay leaves. The palate is concentrated and full (but not heavy), with very firm tannins that are nice and ripe plus oodles of freshness propping up the weighty fruit, finishing very long and spicy.