Canvasback Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain 2021

Tasted as a barrel sample, Canvasback's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Longwinds Vineyard presents a dark and generous nose, rich with juicy black fruit, dusty dark cherries and spiced plum compote accompanied by elegant, round baking spices. The palate follows suit, with ripe fruit flavors held together by firm gripping tannins that dominate the mid-palate and lead into a long, lingering and evolving finish. Although tight now, it is expected to find its cadence in about three to four years. The longer it sits on the palate, the more impressive it becomes.

This is a focused cabernet that has ripe plums, blackberries, tea leaves and dark chocolate on the nose. It’s medium- to full-bodied with fine-grained tannins and a nicely linear and balanced finish. Drink or hold.

Bright cassis, plums, spicy oak, and chocolate notes all emerge from the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain, a nicely textured, medium to full-bodied blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, and 2% Malbec. It's a ripe, nicely oaked, balanced, impressive Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the coming 10-12 years.

Imagine black cherries and a cedar box that once housed Punch Gran Puro cigars. That's how this wine makes its aromatic introduction. Then the medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon delivers black-fruit flavor to go with dark-chocolate and balsa notes. Modest acidity is joined by grippy tannins, so prepare to decant.

The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain is understated, floral and dusty in character with hints of dried black cherry and cedary spice. This is soothingly round and silky. It has polished dark red fruit notes, yet I find myself craving more complexity. It leaves behind chalky mineral tones and notes of licorice, finishing with admirable length and a coating of fine tannins.