Herzog Wine Cellars, Lake County (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

 Lake County still doesn’t have the cachet of the Napa Valley, but it is the source for ever more top-quality Cabernets at reasonable prices, and this is a very fine case in point.  Full-bodied and impressively deep in flavor, it nevertheless comes off as pure and polished, unlike some rough-and-tough “statement wines” that are packed with oak that might never come into balance and allow easy enjoyment.  This shows integrated intricacy at every turn, with a lovely bouquet and flavor profile that show both fruity and savory elements that work together in a harmonious way that seems effortless and natural.  A terrific performance from this house.