2013 HALL Napa Valley "Ellie's" Cabernet Sauvignon 750 ml

Lastly, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellies is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Merlot. Once again, it has an opaque purple color, a gorgeous nose of graphite, crème de cassis, blackberry and new saddle leather. Full-bodied, powerful, unevolved and seeming much more backward than the other two, this wine seems built for the long haul and should be cellared for another 3-4 years before consumption. It has at least 25 to 30 years of aging potential.

This wine opens with big, full-bodied and extracted flavors, highlighted by black cherry, smoked meat and clove. Blended with 4% Merlot, it exudes textural complexity and velvety lushness, with length and breadth to spare. Within its fountain of power exists a strong sense of grace, accented by aromas of wild violet and forested earth.