This label has pioneered the blending of Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel into something unique and powerful, and this Howell Mountain example is big on power, with bold black fruit and pie spice joined by notes of leaf and pepper. Firm tannins carry it all through a lasting finish that will only improve with some bottle age. I like the picking point here — no over-ripe character, and showing harmony of fruit, wood and alcohol. Another winner.
Paraduxx, Howell Mountain (Napa Valley, California) 2013
By Rich Cook