2018 Perliss Estate The Ravens Cabernet Sauvignon, Calistoga Napa Valley California

The 2018 Perliss Estate The Ravens Cabernet Sauvignon is a small-production, single-vineyard Cabernet from the estate's 2.6-acre Ravens Vineyard in Calistoga, Napa Valley. The vineyard sits on a rocky volcanic knoll surrounded by forest, with loamy volcanic soils, cool nights, morning fog and warm sunny days that help create concentrated fruit with natural balance. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the grapes are hand-harvested and naturally fermented with indigenous yeast. The wine is aged for more than 20 months in Tuscan terracotta amphora and French oak barrels, then bottled unfined and unfiltered.

The 2018 vintage shows remarkable depth and aromatic complexity, with espresso, black cherry, plum, blueberry, cocoa, nutmeg, tobacco and leather, complemented by floral and savory nuances. Reviews highlight its purity of fruit, fine-grained tannins, freshness and structured, full-bodied character. The wine received 96 points from Wine Advocate and Vinous, 95 from James Suckling and 93 from Jeb Dunnuck. With its firm structure and depth, it pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted beef, lamb, braised meats and aged cheeses.