Cult X, Alexander Valley (Sonoma County, California) 2011

A blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Malbec and 10% Merlot, this shows very impressive intensity and drive without coming off as over-extracted or over-bearing.  The fruit notes are all about dark berries, and blackberries come first to mind, with plenty of oak bracing that never gets in the way of the fruit notes.  Acidity is atypically high for an Alexander Valley red, but it is quite nicely integrated with the wine’s other components, lending freshness without seeming at all awkward, and presaging at least five years of future improvement.  Platinum award winner at the 2014 San Diego International Wine Competition.