It has been a while since I’ve done a full-on review wine review. I must say, typing this feels so good. I wonder when I will win the lotto so I can do this every day and not have to work. Anyways, for the last two years or so, I have subscribed to Wade Bales. It is a wine club where you fill in your wine profile, pick a package based on your wallet and monthly get wine delivered to your doorstep. For 20 months, I have been on the bronze package so I decided I would go to silver and gold for a couple months to see the calibre of wine in those packages. This is from the silver if I remember correctly.

Appearance: This wine has a deep, dark red color with a slight purple hue, indicating its youthfulness and vibrancy. When swirled in the glass, it leaves long, slow legs, indicating its richness and body.

Aroma: The aroma is intense and complex, with notes of blackcurrant, black cherry, and blackberry dominating the nose. It was something very common with cabernet sauvignon. There are also hints of cedar and vanilla, adding layers of complexity.

Taste: On the palate, this Cabernet Sauvignon is full-bodied and rich, with velvety tannins that give it a smooth mouthfeel. The flavours are concentrated and well-balanced, with ripe black fruits, such as blackcurrant and blackberry, taking the center stage. As usual, there are also hints of dark chocolate, coffee, and spice. The oak aging is evident but well-integrated, providing a touch of vanilla and toastiness without overpowering the fruit.

I have strayed away from Cabernet Sauvignon since I had covid in 2020, I found it overpowering and wanted something a little lighter on the palate. Trying this I found myself expecting something really heavy. This is quite the surprise and I hope I am returning to my old self.

Finish: The finish is long and lingering, leaving a pleasant aftertaste of dark fruits and spice. The tannins are well-structured and provide a good grip, promising good aging potential for the wine.

Overall, this 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a delicious and well-crafted wine that showcases the classic characteristics of the varietal. It has a rich and complex aroma, a full-bodied and balanced palate, and a long, satisfying finish. It would pair well with grilled meats, roasted lamb, or aged cheeses. This wine is enjoyable now, but also has the potential to age gracefully for several more years, allowing the flavors to further develop and evolve.