The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Knights Valley Reserve is a beauty and is all Cabernet brought up in 51% new French oak, which is on the lower end for this estate. Its deep purple color is followed by a classic, nicely structured Knights Valley Cabernet with lots of savory red and black fruits, loamy earth, tobacco leaf, and spice-driven aromas and flavors. With beautiful richness and mid-palate depth, ripe yet present tannins, and outstanding length, it's going to drink nicely for 10-15 years.

The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Knights Valley Reserve is super expressive right out of the gate, which is unusual for a young Knights Valley wine. Crème de cassis, gravel, sage, menthol and licorice give the 2018 much of its dark, somber personality. The winemaking team has really pulled back on the extraction than in the past. The purity of the fruit is striking.

This shows a warm and toasty profile, with cocoa and singed vanilla notes draped over a core of plum compote, ending with a cedary edge. Drink now through 2022. 25,274 cases made.