Bella OaksProprietary Red 2018

2018 marks the debut vintage of Bella Oaks, a longtime, preeminent grower vineyard in the heart of west Rutherford. Made by Nigel Kinsman, of Kinsman Eades and Accendo, this property was a grower vineyard for decades before Suzanne Deal Booth acquired the estate and replanted the entire vineyard, thanks to David Abreu and his viticulture team. We tasted this Cabernet blend last fall and loved it. Comprised of Cabernet with Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, “the inviting nose reveals lifted, pure aromatics. Intense cherry and cassis at the fore intermingling with a bright floral lift, deepened by baking spices and subtle notes of warm pastry crust. The palate is immediately fresh and delicate, showing restrained blueberry and blackberry fruits with gently dried green herbs. The wine's fine, lacy acid balances fruit sweetness, with mouth-coating, fine-grained tannins leaving a dusty cocoa texture to linger. A long, seamless finish features licorice and bay highlights. Graceful, and light on its feet despite great focus and concentration.” -Nigel Kinsman, winemaker. 334 cases were produced. 98+ Points, Robert Parker Wine Advocate