Bond - Vecina 2019

JEB DUNNUCK: "The 2019 Vecina is pure perfection, with a full-bodied, rich, concentrated, yet ultra-pure style that literally stopped me in my tracks. Cassis, currants, graphite, iron, violets, and spicy oak are just some of the nuances here, and this beauty is perfectly balanced, with that rare mix of richness and elegance. This world-class, regal, incredibly impressive Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon will benefit from 5-7 years of bottle age and keep for three decades."

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "My pick of the 2019s from Bond is the 2019 Vecina, which originates from a terraced, east-facing vineyard near the Bond winery, in the western hills of Oakville. It offers tremendous complexity on the nose, with hints of bay leaf, dried sage and pine needles set against a core of ripe cherries and raspberries. In the mouth, it's silky and lush, with terrific length and vibrant fruit on the finish. Give it a few years of age, then drink it over the next two decades."

JAMES SUCKLING: "Blackberry, asphalt, leather and spice with dried flowers. Medium-to full-bodied with fine, layered tannins that are vertical and extremely deep and long. Super fine tannins. Seamless. Lasts for minutes. Graceful and thoughtful. Drink after 2027."

DECANTER: "An east-facing 4.4ha site, just southeast of Bond winery on Oakville’s western foothills. This multidimensional red teems with energy, giving off a savoury black-fruited nose, turning compact on the palate with muscular tannins, hints of blue-toned fruits, and a host of wild herbs redolent of the surrounding live oaks and chaparral. Finishes with rich terracotta earth notes."

LISA PERROTTI-BROWN: "The BOND Vecina 2019 has a deep purple-black color. It is quite closed to begin needing a few swirls to unlock notes of crème de cassis, black cherry preserves, and stewed plums, giving way to hints of cedar chest, graphite, mint tea, and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is fine-knit with grainy tannins and seamless freshness supporting the elegant layers, finishing with a quiet intensity."

WINE SPECTATOR: "A round, polished style, with a core of warmed cassis and plum compote rolling through, plus a coating of dark licorice and a backdrop of roasted vanilla. Drink now through 2035."