Muted at first, this reserve wine shows a deft hand. A red currant tone is met by a mild grip of tannins and a soft midpalate that is lightly rich in coconut shavings and mocha. Supple and balanced in richness, it offers classic flavors of cassis and cherry wrapped in supportive oak.

This is maturing, with softening edges, though the fruit still shows freshness. Cassis and black cherry puree notes form the core, while streaks of licorice, singed vanilla, violet and iron fill in throughout. A hint of warm paving stone keeps the finish grounded. -- Blind 2014 California Cabernet retrospective (June 2024). Drink now through 2038. 4,000 cases made.

Aged 22 months in 100% new French oak, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve offers slightly more richness and depth, with similar notes of black currants, tobacco leaf, herbs and damp earth. Medium-bodied, nicely concentrated, with firm, yet ripe tannin, it's certainly not a blockbuster, but has attractive elegance and purity, with plenty of tannins. Give bottles 2-4 years and enjoy over the following decade.