Rich blackberry compote, cool menthol, blueberry reduction. Black forest cherry, Cuban cigar, açaí purée. An imposingly dense and inky fruit core gushing with boysenberry, dark plum, and cassis broods with highly extracted opulence as notes of espresso, cocoa powder, and flourless chocolate cake provide additional layers of incredibly seductive decadence. Hints of cinnamon stick, anise, nutmeg, and clove lead a procession of pronounced baking spices which further bolster luxuriousness while deep floral perfume of lavender oil, violet, and potpourri lifts and livens aromatics. A suggestion of smoldering wood reveals the influence of tastefully toasted oak treatment before impressions of wrought iron, volcanic soil, and freshly-poured asphalt complete the display with pleasantly rugged underpinnings. Impressively broad-shouldered, powerful, and structured on the palate while remaining beautifully textured and marvelously well balanced; exhibiting an unapologetically bold and bodacious presentation that is deeply complex and captivating. Full bodied with pronounced yet soft tannin and moderate acidity. This 2018 "Select Barrel Reserve" Malbec by Patland Vineyards is an intense and indulgent red from Napa Valley.

Legendary for its deep purple color and ability to produce wines of incredible texture and body, Malbec is a classic French wine grape that has surged in popularity in recent decades thanks largely to its unexpected success in Argentina. This bottling, crafted by Patland Vineyards using Malbec sourced from their estate Terra Del Cuore Vineyard in Napa Valley, proves that this well loved variety can absolutely thrive in Napa's world-class terroir. This wine generously oozes gobs of chewy dark fruits enhanced by delicious chocolatey notes, warm baking spices, perfumed floral tones, and beautiful hints of rugged mountain terroir. Although substantial in weight and concentration this manages to remain quite nicely balanced, and has the potential to age gracefully in bottle for 5-10 years or more. Fantastic.