This is a beast of a wine, with a huge grip and a healthy dollop of oak influence. That said, I think the fruit is up to the structure and barrel treatment that it will need to resolve. It is going to take some time to fully integrate, but it will do so – I would start with five years in the cellar to calm this down. The tell is in the finish, where rich red and black fruit and holiday spice show right through the grip, and though the alcohol shows a little, it’s not out of balance. A bold choice that’s worth a gamble.
Aquilini, Red Mountain (Washington) Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
By Rich Cook