Winemaker Casey Stringer (yes, formerly of Jonata, Screaming Eagle’s sister winery) brings the thunder with this powerhouse Howell Mountain Cab. It’s dark, brooding, and wildly complex right out of the gate.

The nose is an all-out sensory event: savory richness, deep black fruits, juicy blue notes, caramel, clove, fresh cherry, cedar—all swirling into an exotic spice profile that practically pulls you into the glass. Then the palate hits: lush, creamy, muscular, and full of flavor, yet somehow impossibly silky and approachable for a wine with this much structure.

A splash of Petite Sirah from the famed Branham Rockpile Vineyard adds even more depth and oomph.

The critics agree:

• 94 points from Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW (Robert Parker’s former Editor-in-Chief, now at The Wine Independent)

• 92 points from James Suckling

Only 150 cases exist, and at $120, this is a serious collector’s gem with instant “wow” factor.