2013 Lail "Blueprint" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Blueprint is one of the best versions of this Cabernet Sauvignon I have tasted. A rich, sumptuous wine, the 2013 possesses tremendous intensity. Mocha, torrefaction, smoke, new leather and dark-fleshed fruit, the 2013 captures a great balance of intensity, opulence and freshness, especially for such a big wine. Full-throttle to the core, the 2013 should drink well with minimal cellaring. Once again, Lail's Blueprint is a fabulous value. Robin Lail excels with big, textured wines. I found the 2013 and 2014 Cabernets terrific, and a step up from the 2012s, which I felt were pushed a bit too far. The Blueprint series, both the Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon) are once again delicious wines that deliver tons of quality for the money on the rich, intense style Lail and winemaker Philippe Melka pursue here. (AG)