2018 Laurel Glen Sonoma Mountain Estate Cabernet Sauvignon [W&S96][V94][JD93][WE93]

"As caretaker of this historic vineyard since 2011, Bettina Sichel has sustained Laurel Glen at the top-echelon of California cabernet elegance. Back in 1968, Patrick Campbell planted the original vines on an east-northeast-facing plateau—with an assist from a 13-year-old neighbor, Phil Coturri, who would come on board to manage the vineyard for Sichel and gain organic certification in 2014. Randall Watkins has made the wines since 2011, including this finely detailed 2018, a wine that leave a layered sensation of tannins and fruit skin and fruit flesh on the breath. The fruit lasts on the fragrance of fruit blossoms, cherry blossoms and cherry leaf, the flavor lush and delicious, an herbal bath with red fruit surround sound. 703 cases made." 

"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is bright, effusive and packed with energy. Readers will have to cellar the 2018 for at least a few years to get the full Laurel Glen experience, but that will be worth the wait. Today, the 2018 is so primary that opening a bottle would be a shame. The purity of the flavors is just compelling. Black cherry, lavender, pine, menthol and dried herbs linger on the vibrant, salivating finish." 

Jeb Dunnuck, 93 Points 

"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Laurel Glen Vineyard Estate is an opaque and inky red, with lifted woodsy aromas of menthol, pine, cassis, and leather. This full-bodied red is ripe with good freshness, and has ripe, fine tannins as well as a supple texture. Its savory profile continues on the palate with black cherry compote, smoked tea leaf, and turned soil. Long on the palate, this is a nice way to showcase the savory, woodsy nature of Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon." 

Wine Enthusiast, 93 Points 

"Crisply focused in currant, dried herb and cedar, this is a classically structured red that is vibrantly approachable and ample to drink in its youth. With just 30% new French oak, it delivers forested earthiness and high-toned freshness that complement each other well for a very fair price." 

Winemaker Notes: 

"Very perfumed aromas of blackberry and blueberry creating a jammy palate impression. The acidity in the wine lifts the big complex flavors, with a hint of dark chocolate, giving the wine an unexpected freshness. All culminating in a long finish with pronounced, yet elegant, tannins."