DuMOL, Meteor Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Coombsville

Opened in 2022 and decanted for about an hour C: Dark but clear. Deep ruby. Slow legs. S: Dust, cobwebs, earth, plum, raspberry, dried fruit, barrels, raspberry, T: Medium body at first, more carmel than fruit, hint of plum, medium acidity, smooth. Big round mouthfeel, not much astringency. I kinda wish it had one angular characteristic I could grab on to; instead it's mellow, smooth, integrated. Big but not bold. R: Liked it +, but might not buy again

Wow; wasn't prepared for this. It *almost* goes toe-to-toe with the Quilceda Creek I had a few days back. But it's so different. Where that one was all sweet cassis and maple, this one's blackberry, oaky mocha, sweat, and a note of celery powder or green pepper. It has an impressive finish that comes up just short of the QC's endless one. Nice little contrast between Washington and Napa, almost like Right Bank versus Left Bank, respectively. Can't wait to …