Chateau Montelena, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California 2022

Violets, cedar, frankincense and bright red raspberry leap from the glass. There’s also a wisp of black pepper and coffee that lends a subtle but persistent earthiness on the nose.

The palate opens with bright acid and loads of ripe red fruit – cranberry, raspberry and cherry – before turning dark and toasty with notes of almond, dried fig and quince paste.

The tannins are alive and voluptuous, chalky and rich. They contrast the acid perfectly and continue to build with every sip. The finish is seamless and silky, with cacao, fruit leather and black walnut.