2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Rich, but not mouth-coating. Ripe, but not overripe. Sweet, but not cloying, the wine is the epitome of balance, harmony and a unique sense of character. Still young, the wine maintains its intensity without ever coming close to being over the top. Cost aside, this is truly what great wine is all about. I am not sure I\'ll taste this again. But it was clearly a thrill a sip experience. 99 Points

This shows a very compact palate with superb complexity and precision with aromas and flavors ranging from blackberries and black truffles to black tea and wet earth. It’s full-bodied and finely grained with a light, woody complexity underneath it all. Extremely long and persistent on the palate. Drink or hold.

Another perfect wine is the 2012 Screaming Eagle which checks in as 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc. While just as good as the 2013, it’s made in a very different style and has a lush, opulent, sexy profile as well as the hallmark crème de cassis, white flowers, graphite and spice. With a silky, full-bodied, seamless texture, incredible complexity, ultra-fine tannin, and blockbuster length, this quintessential Screaming Eagle will continue drinking beautifully for 20-25 years.