Mayacamas - Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder 2020

JAMES SUCKLING: "A creamy texture surrounds pretty floral and black fruit flavors in this elegant, poised wine. It escaped the vintage's smoke effects, and offers pure blackcurrant and black cherry flavors that expand on the palate and linger in the finish. Medium- to full-bodied. Made from 100% cabernet sauvignon. From organically grown grapes. Drinkable now but best from 2029."

LISA PERROTTI-BROWN: "Medium garnet-purple in color, the 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon needs a little coaxing to bring out pretty notes of kirsch, redcurrant jelly, and juicy blackberries plus hints of rose oil, cinnamon stick, and underbrush. The medium to full-bodied palate is bright and cheery, with red and black berry layers framed by a chewy texture and refreshing line, finishing long and earthy. Nice!"

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "The grapes for Mayacamas's 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon were harvested between September 5th and 16th, well before the Glass Fire. To mitigate any possible smoke exposure from the LNU Complex Fires, the fruit was rinsed, maceration times were shortened, and the press wine was kept separate (and ultimately mostly bulked out). The results speak for themselves, as the wine offers up clean cassis, cherries and blueberries, plus hints of sage and cracked pepper. It's medium to full-bodied and firmly built, with dusty tannins on the finish."

WINE SPECTATOR: "This is zesty and lively, with good energy (especially for a '20) to the mix of bramble, sweet bay and chaparral notes liberally infusing its core of black currant and bitter plum fruit. Taut and structured, with a cast iron note bolting through the finish. Needs some time to settle in but is loaded with character and nicely done for the vintage. Best from 2027 through 2037. 2,900 cases made."