Laurel Glen, Sonoma Mountain (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

Laurel Glen’s ‘Counterpoint’ Cabernet Sauvignon was conceived many years ago by winery founder Patrick Campbell (now retired) as a more approachable Cab than the winery’s more expensive benchmark Cabernet. That might lead some to think Counterpoint is a less "serious" wine, and that would be a mistake. This vintage of Counterpoint is a brilliant wine that shows inviting aromas of red and black fruits, hints of spice and oak vanillin, and supple tannins that do indeed make this wine approachable now. But I wouldn’t hesitate to cellar it for a decade or more, though the temptation to drink now could prove irresistible.