California Cult Classics Cabernet Sauvignon Ristow

Big wine. Black cherry, vanilla, dark chocolate. A true California cab. Nice acidity, dry, smooth tannins, med body. Med finish. A good go to wine

Clear dark purple in color. Clean nose of black currant, vanilla, and cedar. Dry, med+body, med acidity, solid tannins, black currant, vanilla, and spice on palate. Nice finish. A big wine. High alcohol level is apparent. The legs on this wine are gorgeous. These wines always impress.

Smells of Black currents and Cherries with a strong alcohol sent. This is not surprising as it is 15.9% alcohol. I did not decant and it tasted peppery, and somewhat tannic with a strong finish. 20 mins later it had smoothed out considerably leaving a more satin smoother finish. This is an excellent wine that is young and will benefit immensely from aging. Readily drinkable now but will be much better in a few years.

Popped and poured. Drank with some pasta with a beefy tomato sauce. Fruity in its youth. Very fresh, aromatic and with nice smooth tannins. Probably not much more than two years left in the bottle... Drink now.