2022 Martin Ray Cabernet Sauvignon Santa Cruz Mountains

Fermented in small open-top fermenters, with pumpovers three times per day. 30 days of post-fermentation maceration. Aged in 60% new French and American oak for 18 months. 750 cases produced. Smells of sweet black cherry and fresh flowers with a hint of raisin underneath. Flavours of black cherry and cola mix with a hint of chocolate-covered raisins, as suede-like tannins wrap the palate and squeeze. Notes of sweet oak and a touch of brown sugar linger in the finish. Very good acidity keeps things fresh and juicy, but there's definitely a caramelised note to this wine that I'd prefer not to taste at this young age. (AY)