Ashes & Diamonds Winery, Oakville, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2016

 From an Oakville vineyard along the Valley floor also owned by the Araujo family, this is another 100% Cabernet aged for 20 months in French oak.  Initially it is briary and shows an oaky side, but with time raspberry and blackcherry fruit pokes through.  On the palate it is medium bodied with plenty of ripe fruit and tannins coming through in the finish.  Unlike the 2017s, this one is straightforward Cabernet that is pleasing and well-made. But it does not display the charm and subtle complexities that are on display in the 2017s.  Oh well, still enjoyable.