The second consecutive drought year for Napa, it ushered in a warm, dry spring with early bud break in the month of April. A warm, windy season encouraged vines to develop smaller berries with thicker skins, and this is evident in the tannins structure of this wine, which also benefitted from a touch less new oak—as will be the case with subsequent vintages from this point onward. Tasted at the decade marker, it is in an absolutely pitch-perfect place, having just shed its ripe, juicy, and youthful fruit profile in favour of more dried and current characteristics, with secondary nuances just beginning to creep in and reveal currant leaf, tobacco, and sandalwood. Brawny, fine-grained tannins framed an energetic wine while exotic brown spices, earth, and truffle notes only tease at the joy to come—it may perhaps close down briefly to reveal itself and all the glory of the excellent vintage closer to 2030. To be enjoyed well beyond. 98 points