2016 Sena

The 2016 Seña is a graceful representation of the challenges presented from a cool year that also experienced record rainfall of 79mm in mid-April. A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Malbec, 12% Petit Verdot, 8% Carménère and 5% Cabernet Franc, it was aged for 22 months in 73% new barrels, 12% in foudres. The restrained, elegant nose offers blackcurrant and fruit with delicate hints of sour cherry, spice and herbs. It’s juicy in the mouth with an energy grounded in the attractive freshness, finely grained tannins and depth of flavor. The compact flow, which is a touch watery, lingers at length while the alcohol balance is superlative.

The truly excellent 2016 Seña could very well be the finest wine produced at this estate that started as a joint venture between Robert Mondavi and Eduardo Chadwick and now continues under the guidance of Chadwick and the excellent hand of winemaker Francisco "Pancho" Baettig. The grapes were picked later in 2016, and the final blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Malbec, 12% Petit Verdot, 8% Carmenere and 5% Cabernet Franc, with more Malbec and considerably less Carmenere than in the past. This is "only" 13.5% alcohol and has remarkable acidity and freshness, as well as overall balance and elegance that surpasses all previous vintages. Twelve percent of the volume matured in oak foudres, while the rest was aged in barrique (73% new) for 22 months. Even so, the wine is not oaky and comes through as harmonious and elegant within the house style. It's serious, dry and elegant, with zero concessions to sweetness. A mineral and profound red blend. 72,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in February 2018.

Aromas are lifted and bright in this wine with loads of blackberries and blueberries. Full body, velvety tannins. Gorgeous texture. Very pure fruit. A bright and more fundamental Seña than last vintages. Restrained at the end. 55% cabernet, 20% malbec, 12% petit verdot, 8% carmenere, 5% cabernet franc. September 2018 release. Needs three or four years of bottle age.