2016 Cadence Camerata Cara Mia Vineyard

A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc, the 2016 Camerata immediately presents a wine that is focused, definitive and concise. It shows precision and power on the nose of clearly defined blackberries and cassis over red plum and black cherry, with a balancing core of focused oak tones. Full-bodied on the palate, the wine has a mineral tension backed by luxurious fruit tones that seem to linger to no end. The wine lingers long on the finish, with precision, mineral grip and fresh fruit essence. Well done! This is simply delicious wine. Only 300 cases were made.

This has gravel and sappy leaves and herbs, ahead of blueberries and cassis. The palate has a plush, smooth and silky array of fine tannins that carry smoothly into the brightly assertive, redder-fruited finish. A blend of 80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% cabernet franc. Drink now.

The reserve 2016 Camerata Cara Mia Vineyard (80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc) shows slightly more ruby on the edge (probably due to the longer 23-month élevage) and has a beautiful perfume of spiced red and black fruits, earth, cedar, and dried flowers. This medium to full-bodied beauty has a rounded, layered texture, nicely integrated acidity, and a great finish. It's a clear step up over the Bel Canto in this vintage. Give it a handful of years and drink over the coming 15 years. This is another set of fine releases from winemaker Ben Smith. As I’ve written in the past, they are classic, age-worthy wines well worth your attention.