Alba de Domus, Maipo Valley (Chile) Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

 I wish that I had been able to taste this wine from the 2018 vintage to better compare it to the releases from that same vintage of Peñalolen and Domus Aurea, but beggars can’t be choosers, and every release of Alba de Domus and Domus Aurea is worth begging for.  This is a notably classier, cleaner wine then the 2018 Peñalolen, but it is also more domesticated and less exotic, so you should certainly try both of you can find them.  But considering this in its own right, it is spectacular Cabernet for $40, and a threat to examples costing much more, with marvelous texture that is simultaneously structured and smooth, with ultra-fine tannins and beautifully integrated wood.  The fruit, acidity, oak and tannin are all so beautifully proportioned that the wine is harmonious at every point from the first sip to the last sensation from the long, long finish.  This was still fantastic when re-tasted after 24 hours, and though that suggests that it will age nicely, it is so delicious now that few bottles will survive for long after a first bottle is tasted.