Rudd Rudd Samantha's Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 750ml

Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Samantha’s was aged for 22 months in French oak barrels, 68% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it slips slowly out of the glass with captivating scents of black raspberries, Morello cherries, black currant pastilles and rose oil, followed by suggestions of cedar chest, pencil lead and black olives. The full-bodied palate is charged with amazing energy, featuring vivacious red and black berry layers and a firm backbone of grainy tannins, lifted by refreshing acidity and bags of crunchy fruit on the long finish. 617 cases were made.

This has an old-school hint, showing warm earth and roasted cedar hints, with a mix of steeped plum and warmed cassis fruit flavors. There’s a strong tug of loam through the finish, giving this a youthfully grippy feel. Offers more heft than purity, but this is plenty solid. Best from 2023 through 2036. 615 cases made. (James Molesworth)