Patria Patria Avoyelles 2021 750ml

There are not many better Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon blends out there than the 2021 Avoyelles Oakville, which checks in as 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Petit Verdot, most of which was co-fermented. Absolutely brilliant any way you look at it, it offers a stunning array of cassis, blueberries, graphite, chocolate, and spring flowers on the nose. These carry to a full-bodied, ultra-fine, balanced, polished 2021 that’s going to flirt with perfection on release. There’s not much of this to go around, so don’t miss a chance to buy a bottle if you’re given the opportunity.

The 2017 Avoyelles is just as impressive from bottle as it was from barrel. Rich and explosive on the palate, the 2017 conveys tons of savory freshness and intensity. Lavender, sage, mint, black cherry and espresso all soar out of the glass. The 2017 is a wine of real character and personality; it is also absolutely gorgeous. Over the last year, the 2017 has really come together. What a wine!

The 2021 Avoyelles is another fabulous wine in this range from Tony Biagi. There's a bit more Cabernet Sauvignon in this year's wire, a choice that works quite well. Black cherry, mocha, licorice, chocolate and leather are ail amplified in this potent, brooding Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc blend.