S. R. Tonella Cellars – Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 – Rutherford, Napa Valley

The nose is fruity, elegant, aromatic and offers complexity, a certain power (full of freshness). It reveals notes of bright/fresh raspberry, blackberry, small notes of small bright black fruits associated with touches of bright violet plum, violet, Sichuan pepper as well as hints of aromatic herbs, laurel, tonka bean, fresh mild tobacco, delicate hints of bourbon vanilla pod and fresh hazelnut. The palate is fruity, well-balanced, racy and offers deepness, a multi-layer side, a certain tension, gourmandize, a good definition and a juicy/acidulous frame. On the palate this wine expresses notes of pulpy/juicy cassis, juicy/pulpy blackberry, small notes of crushed raspberry associated with touches of acidulous/crunchy plum, pink laurel as well as hints of sweet spices, fresh blueberry, black olive, zan and a subtle hint of toasted/roasted almond. Good length. Tannins are precise and soft.