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Sleight of Hand The Archimage Reserve Red 2016 (750ML)
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Critic Scores, Reviews & Descriptions
95 JD / 93 WS / 93 WA / 93 JS
#88 Wine Spectator Top 100 2020
A blend of 50% Cabernet Franc, 47% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 The Archimage Reserve has a bright, floral character as well as beautiful blue fruits, graphite, and lead pencil nuances, background oak, medium to full body, nicely integrated acidity, and fine tannins. It has all the right components but needs 2-4 years of bottle age to show at its best.
The style at Sleight of Hand, under the guidance of Trey Busch, Jerry Solomon, and Keith Johnson, has changed dramatically over the past 4-5 years and the wines show more finesse, elegance, and purity today, without sacrificing on fruit or texture. These are brilliant wines, and I certainly include this estate in the top handful of estates in Washington today. Unfortunately, the top cuvees are made in tiny quantities. - Jeb Dunnuck
Svelte and seamlessly complex, featuring refined cherry and blueberry flavors, with hints of lead pencil and spice that build energy toward polished tannins. Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2029. 750 cases made. - TF, Wine Spectator
A blend of 57% Cabernet Franc and 43% Merlot, the 2016 The Archimage offers up aromas of orange rind, red-black fruits and tobacco leaf, followed by a medium-bodied but lavishly textural, expansive palate that concludes with a saline, mouthwatering finish. It's still youthfully chewy but should be drinking well with only a year or two of cellaring. June 2018. - William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Impressively delivered oak aromas with earthy notes and a wealth of blueberries and blue plums that continue to the palate. This has a sleek and easygoing feel with a very smooth and composed build on the palate. Long finish. Drink or hold. - James Suckling