Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon Puente Alto Vineyard 2021

100 Points James Suckling Ashy graphite, cassis, iron, blackberries and a hint of cigar box and chocolate. Lots of violets, too. Rich and intense with a full-bodied palate. Showing density and very fine but structured tannins. Long and intense finish with lots of flavors. 93% cabernet sauvignon, 4% cabernet franc and 3%. One of the best over the last few years. Drinkable now, but will fledge and hold very well in the next 20 years.

99 Points 2021 Vintage the drinks business This 2021 release is wonderful, with density and power, but a bright edge too, ensuring there’s a lively character to the mouthfeel. At the core is red and dark berry fruit, even a touch of blackcurrant jam and cherry compote, supported by notes of vanilla cream, roasted coffee bean, and charred bread. Then comes a hint of pink peppercorn, and dried herbs, before the wine’s flavours slowly fade, leaving a finegrained tannic texture, ensuring this intense red is chalky, dry, and refreshing. Drink now or lay down for a decade or more."