Passel Estate, Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 71 Reserve 2015

Even though it spent 18 months in French oak, half of which was new, the 2015 Lot 71 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon doesn’t overpower with woodiness. Instead, its concentrated cassis fruit takes center stage, gracefully complemented and structured by its oak aging. While subtle notes of vanilla and cedar linger in the background, this medium to full-bodied wine impresses with supple tannins, accents of sage and bay leaf, and a lingering, refined finish.