Ardente Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Select Reserve

Just a tired old Napa Cab with very little to offer. Fruit nearly gone but some cassis and blackberry compote remains with a touch of smoke in the background. Stored properly and had a solid cork, plus a significant shoulder stain.

Very good Cabernet. Restrained, light on its feet, reminds me of a Left Bank Bordeaux. Plenty of black fruit, leather, sandalwood, spring flowers, and a whiff of cinnamon bark. Briary fruit really comes on with a couple hours of air. Soft tannins and closes with a hint of fruit sweetness.