Linden Vineyards, Virginia (United States) 2016

 The 2016 release of this wine is scheduled for January of 2020, with the 2015 still available in both 750 ml and half bottles.  The 2016 is terrific, showing impressive pigment concentration in the glass…and things only get better from there.  Quite expressive aromatically, it shows topnotes of spices and light toast and a subtle whiff of woodsmoke, and those notes carry through in the flavors, which are driven by a delicious core of dark-toned fruit.  Stylistically, this isn’t overly “polished,” which is very much to my liking, and the overall impression is slightly rustic and natural rather than “juicy” or overt.  The tannins and oak lend just the right amount of grip in relation to the wine’s level of fruitiness, making it possible to enjoy this on its own despite its considerable flavor impact.  Blended from 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc, it is very impressive.