2018 Perliss Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Pearl of the Ravens
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pearl of The Ravens saw lots of amphorae (80%) as well as a kiss of whole cluster, giving it a unique, exotic style in its red and blue fruits, sandalwood, rose petal, and floral aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it's beautifully textured and has ripe tannins, a seamless texture, and a great finish. I’d be thrilled to have bottles in the cellar, and it should evolve for 20 years with no issues.
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Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pearl of the Ravens is a selection of the top lots in the cellar, fermented in equal parts amphora and barrel. Dark cherry fruit, grave, spice, lavender and licorice emerge, leaving huge swaths of tannin on the palate. Readers should plan on cellaring this potent, brooding Cabernet for at least a handful of years.
Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 Pearl of the Ravens comes from the same vineyard as "The Ravens" label, but this is aged 80% in amphorae and 20% in oak. Deep garnet-purple colored, it slips seductively out of the glass with notions of Black Forest cake, stewed plums and crème de cassis, plus hints of potpourri and spice cake. Full-bodied, the palate is generously fruited with wonderful purity and a lovely, plush yet rock-solid texture, finishing with beautiful harmony and expressiveness. I wouldn't say that it is better at this stage than "The Ravens," but the delineation and purity of fruit as well as the solid structure suggest it could age a little more slowly and gracefully than its sibling. 69 cases were made.
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pearl of the Ravens is partially aged in terra cotta amphora. Dark fruit and powerful tannins convey an impression of brooding power. Graphite, plum, black cherry, chocolate, licorice and cloves all build in the glass. This is an especially virile style; I prefer The Ravens. I can't wait to see how this ages.