2021 Seven Apart Cabernet Sauvignon Basalt Stags Ridge Vineyard

From the north-facing section of the estate's 8.4-acre Stags Ridge Vineyard on Atlas Peak, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Basalt is a different beast from the Shale, much more structured and backward; it should be cellared for at least a few years prior to consumption and has the potential to last up to two decades. Crushed stone and charcoal-graphite nuances accent deep, dark cassis fruit on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is firm and tannic, even a touch astringent on the finish, but backed by impressive reserves of fruit.

Perfumed red and blue fruits, leather, chalky mineral, and graphite as well as savory flower notes all define the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Baslat, and this beauty is tighter, more compact, and focused on the palate, with plenty of underlying tannins and structure. It's another remarkable barrel sample from this estate that has so much to love. As with most 2021s, I think the cellar will be your friend.

The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Basalt is packed with dark red fruit, mocha, grilled herbs and licorice. Bright acids play off a core of red-toned fruit, all framed by deep, potent tannins that are remarkably well-balanced for such a young wine. The 2021 is a bit compact today, but it is also full of potential. There is an abundance of tannin in intensity and size, but all the elements are present for the Basalt to develop beautifully.