Spottswoode, St. Helena (Napa Valley, California) 2012

I find I have a real preference for Spottswoode wines in blind tastings of similar wines — they just have a way of rising to the top of my list.  This might be the best one I’ve tasted yet.  Like all of the Spottswoode wines, it takes a bit of working it in the glass to get to its essence, but the work pays off.  Profoundly deep and concentrated, it shows black and blue fruit, with cassis, mild chocolate, fall spices and a touch of pepper.  Fine-grained tannins and lively acidity make the finish last and last, with all of the elements lingering beautifully.  My top scoring wine of 2015.  Contains 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot.