Nickel & Nickel, Oakville, Napa Valley (California) John C. Sullenger Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 ($100)

Nickel & Nickel is one of Far Niente’s six Napa Valley brands, and it is the one tasked with making wines that are single-vineyard and single-varietal – so this one has no blending grapes added in. To me, there are two basic styles of premium Napa Cabs – smooth, rich and creamy and those that are more-savory and with more of an edge – but a pleasing edge – to them. This one is in the latter category, with lovely cassis aromas and flavors along with dark, mature blackberry and black raspberry flavors, savory notes, and lots of lip-smacking tannins – the kind of red that makes you hungry for food and for more wine.
94 Roger Morris