Pedestal Vintage Select

Impressively complex with a clearly defined plummy essence, the 2016 Pedestal Vintage Select Reserve bursts out of the glass with aromas of dark cherry, juicy blackberry and complex oak tones of cinnamon, cardamom and vanilla, lifted by a chocolaty nuance, wet stone and dried spices. Full-bodied, complex and layered, the broad-shouldered wine has a velvety underbelly of dark chocolate-covered cherries before lifting tannins grip the gumline and palate and linger through to the finish. It’s a long, complex and multilayered wine that delivers pleasure at every turn. Yum!

Very pure, subtly complex aromas of dark fruits, spices, minerals, sexy oak and licorice, lifted by a floral nuance. Juicy, lively and fine-grained on entry, then sharply delineated and vibrant in the middle palate, with cassis, blackberry, licorice and violet flavors conveying a light touch for such an intense wine. Finishes quite firm and juicy, with noble tannins totally buffered by the wine's fruit and energy. This refined beauty will need time to open and expand, but its rising, ultimately explosive finish already confirms its high quality.

An interesting barrel selection of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon that was raised in 80% new French oak, the 2016 Pedestal Vintage Select offers lots of blackberry and ripe black cherry fruit as well as ample chocolate, roasted herbs, damp earth, and a meaty, almost iron-like character that emerges from the glass. It's slightly richer than the classic release yet still has a beautiful purity and sense of balance. Drink this full-bodied, concentrated 2016 any time over the coming 15+ years.