2018 HAMEL FAMILY ISTHMUS
"The 2018 Isthmus is made up of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot from the Nuns Canyon and Hamel Family Ranch Vineyards. Notably, it was matured for 12 months in 26% new French oak barrels and transferred to concrete tanks for an additional 17 months' maturation. Deep ruby in color, the nose features blackcurrants and cherries with slowly emerging wafts of tobacco, charcuterie, graphite and dried herbs. The medium-bodied palate is powdery and seamless, its structural balance giving it a featherweight feel in the mouth. Fresh, smooth, long and layered, it's an easy-drinking yet complex meritage that will benefit from another 2-3 years in bottle to unwind." Erin Brooks Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 95 points Drink 2023-37