The Magpie, Oakville, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon “Lot Thirteen” 2023 ($90)

This is a young Cabernet that is still integrating its oak, but the fruit is up to the task of absorbing the wood with additional bottle aging. Ripe blackberry and black currant fruit are accented by black pepper and a red cherry note, and as the oak folds fully in the wine over time, this will become an even more plush beauty. Age at least three years before digging in, or decant it for several hours if cracking in anytime soon.
94 Rich Cook