J. Davies, Diamond Mountain District, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2016

 A dark-toned brooder of a Cabernet, and a fine example of what we wine nerds refer to as mountain tannins.  There’s a grip that stays in the front of the mouth, letting the dark berry character flood the mid palate before the spices join in, letting each layer speak clearly.  There’s a fair amount of oak influence here that is beginning to resolve, and it will continue to do so over several years, resulting in a cellar trophy for the patient collector.  A good surprise producer to lay down alongside the more well known players in the region.