2013 Charles Smith "Chateau Smith" Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

My favorite of the Charles Smith releases, the 2013 Charles Smith Chateau Smith Cabernet Sauvignon is rock solid, with classic violets, plum, licorice, earth and spring flower notes giving way to a medium-bodied, juicy, balanced feel on the palate. A barrel-aged blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot and a splash of Petit Verdot, from yields in the range of 2-3 tons per acre, it‰۪s another terrific value that over delivers. I‰۪d drink it over the coming year or two, but I see no reason it won‰۪t hold longer. (JD)