DIAMOND CREEK CABERNET RED ROCK TERRACE 2011 (MAG), Napa

The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Rock Terrace is composed of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Malbec and 1% Merlot. It was aged for 22 months in French oak, 100% new. Medium to deep garnet in color, wonderfully sprightly black and blue fruit notes come bounding out of the glass—blueberry pie, crème de cassis and baked plums—with hints of camphor, chocolate box, pencil shavings, unsmoked cigars and cardamom. The medium-bodied palate has wonderful harmony and fantastic freshness, delivering a compelling ferrous character among the spicy black fruit preserves, finishing long and savory.