Gamble Family Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Even better than the 2017, Gamble's 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley comes across as slightly riper and richer. A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, 5% each Cabernet Franc and Merlot, and 3% Malbec, it reveals hints of barrel char and grilled meat on the nose, plus plenty of black cherries. Full-bodied and velvety textured, with a long, lingering finish, give this another year or two in the cellar and drink it over the following decade. When released, it should be a solid value in the rarified world of Napa Valley Cabernet.

This is a well-made red, blended with Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, then aged in French, Hungarian and American oak. Black pepper, cigar and toasted oak notes combine around a force of black currant, the wine offering a touch of reduction.