Packed with aromas of blackberry, cassis, baking spices, coffee, California Bay, and pencil shavings on the nose. Well-knit and full, the palate reflects the nose with raspberry, blackberry and dark plum. We couldn’t be more pleased with how its showing nearly a decade on.
92 points | James Suckling
Cedary nuances with iodine, dried leaves and dark berries packed in deep here. The palate has a vibrant core of mulberries and cherries with darker black-fruit notes. Sleek, polished tannins. Medium to full body. A blend of 75% cabernet sauvignon, 12% cabernet franc, 11% malbec and 2% petit verdot. Drink or hold. — JS
91 points | Editor's Choice | Wine Enthusiast
This is the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay producer's second inaugural release of Cabernet Sauvignon, having made the variety from 1979 to 1992 before grafting over the Cab vines to Pinot Noir. In 2012 Hanzell replanted two acres of Pinot back to Cabernet and here's the welcome result. Blended with 12% Cabernet Franc, 11% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot, it offers a sweet cassis bouquet and substantial structure lined in flavors of red fruit, pencil shavings and tobacco. — Virginie Boone
91 points | Wine Spectator
Steeped tea details accent the dried berry and ripe cherry flavors. Shows lilting spiciness, with forest floor notes on the finish. — Kim Marcus
