GOLDSCHMIDT GAME RANCH PLUS CABERNET 2018 750ML

Aromas of blackberries, plums, olives, cedar, coconut, red chili pepper and baking spices. Full-bodied and tightly wound with fresh acidity. Plenty of dark berries and chocolate on the palate. Compact, fresh and long.

The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Game Ranch seems to have it all: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, all new French oak for 30 months and a top-flight location just west of the Silverado Trail in Oakville. Layers of cedar and vanilla unfold on the nose, backed by ample cassis fruit, but while the medium to full-bodied palate is pleasantly refreshing and softly textured, there's a certain lack of richness on the mid-palate that holds this wine back, despite its evident charms and lengthy finish. It's still delicious and easy to drink, so don't overlook it, just don't expect Macy's-level fireworks.