David Arthur Proprietary Red Wine 2018

Racy and focused, with sanguine and iron notes piercing through the core of red currant and damson plum fruit. The long finish has mouthwatering cut as the minerality stays vibrant. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2022 through 2032.

Fresh red plums, cherries, cloves, licorice and some peach and lavender, too. It’s medium-to full-bodied with silky tannins. Ripe-fruit flavors, but a fresh feel. Mostly mountain fruit. Cabernet sauvignon and merlot with a little petit verdot.

While I wasn't able to get the blend, this cuvée is normally a Bordeaux blend dominated release that includes a handful of Italian varieties. The 2018 Proprietary Red Wine reveals a ruby hue as well as a pretty, elegant, medium-bodied style that carries plenty of redcurrant fruit, sappy herbs, green tobacco, and spring flower notes. I love its balance, and this charmer has an almost Pinot Noir-like texture, yet offers plenty of structure as well. It should evolve for at least a decade.