2018 BRAND Cabernet Sauvignon

The rich, cedar-stained 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon needs a bit of time still to digest its oak. Menthol and toast dominate the nose, but give it a bit of time in the glass and the cassis and blackberry fruit begins to come through. It's full-bodied and velvety in feel, not quite as broad and plush as the Proprietary Blend but perhaps a touch more focused and streamlined.

Producer: BRAND Winery

From: USA, California, North Coast, Napa Valley

Color: Red

Type: Table

Sweetness: Dry

Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

2018 BRAND Proprietary Blend

As usual about two-thirds Cabernet Franc and one-third Cabernet Sauvignon (63-37 this vintage), Brand's 2018 Proprietary Blend is a dense, rich offering, combining chocolaty richness with enlivening streaks of cassis, menthol and tobacco. Full-bodied and expansive on the palate, it's velvety in texture, plush even, yet it doesn't come across as overly heavy or alcoholic, and it finishes long, with hints of star anise and cassia bark. It should drink well for close to two decades.

Producer: BRAND Winery

From: USA, California, North Coast, Napa Valley

Color: Red

Type: Table

Sweetness: Dry

Variety: Proprietary Blend