Eisele Altagracia Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 (750ML)

97 JS / 95+ WA / 17.5 JR

Intense aromas of black fruit, cocoa powder, black olives, dried violets, tar and cigar box. Some black peppercorn, too. It’s full-bodied with firm, chalky tannins. Incredible intensity and purity of fruit with gorgeous breadth and depth. Superb, new-wave Napa red. 80% cabernet sauvignon, the rest mostly cabernet franc with a hit of petit verdot. Try from 2025. James Suckling

Deep purple-black in color, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Altagracia slowly grows on the nose, developing into profound scents of black currant cordial, baked plums and wild blueberries with suggestions of bouquet garni, black pepper, pencil lead and fertile loam plus a touch of beef drippings. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is delicately played with beautiful definition and lots of red berry and earthy accents intertwined with the black fruits. Supported by velvety tannins and just enough freshness, it finishes long and mineral laced. LPB – The Wine Advocate

Deep, dark crimson. Minerally fresh nose. Something quite tannic and almost metallic in the way that Aglianico is – a plus point! Very different from most Napa Cabs – much less sweet. Really very fine and, compared with the grand vin, good value. Not ready yet but getting there fast. Just the merest hint of malted milk on the end. Then fine tannins.--Jancis Robinson