2013 Inglenook Rubicon

Inglenook's 2013 Rubicon is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, matured in French oak (75% new). It's minty and cedary up front, marked by slightly sappy notes and ripe cherries. Aristocratic and firmly structured, it's medium to full-bodied, tannic yet silky, with terrific length on the finish. It appears to be just entering its drinking window, with the ability to evolve positively for a decade or more.

The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Rubicon emerges from the back part of the property, which lies on the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains. Here the wines are dense, powerful and structured. That is exactly what comes through in the 2013. Layers of dark fruit built into a crescendo of aromas, flavors and textures laced with mocha, espresso, gravel and dark spice overtones. The new oak that was so prominent at the outset has begun to integrate and in so doing is allowing the fruit to come through to a greater degree than in the past. This is a tremendous showing for the 2013 Rubicon.

Scorched earth, graphite, smoke, lavender, plums and blueberry jam race across the palate in the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Rubicon. A big, dramatic wine, the 2013 is endowed with explosive energy to burn. Orange peel, flowers, mint and sweet spices give the 2013 an extra kick of lift to balance the sheer opulence of the fruit. The French oak is much better balanced here than in the 2012, which helps convey a more classic style throughout, but it is still quite evident.