Black cherry compote, young cedar, créme de cassis. Ripe blackberry, brown tobacco, deglet noor date. Dark violet and black rose, star anise and warm nutmeg. Black currant, mocha, and eucalyptus dance amongst chopped redwood and lava rocks. Broad shouldered but not overweight with pronounced sweet dusty tannin and balancing acidity. This 2014 Diamond Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon by Poggi Wines is structured and restrained yet totally Napa.

The Diamond Mountain District is one of Napa Valley's most unique sub-appellations. It is located in the northwestern corner of the valley and benefits from a more moderate climate than surrounding areas - since vineyards here sit at higher elevations. Heavily volcanic soils combined with cooler daytime temperatures help to create wines that can be firmly tannic and structured in their youth. This bottling, crafted by micro-boutique producer Poggi Wines, is an excellent example of the appellation. Sourced from a single unnamed vineyard and still very young at 4 years of age this stuff certainly flexes its muscles. Although its brawn is immediately apparent it is actually quite pretty and is showing surprisingly well already. It's black as night exhibiting baking spice, clean oak, and complex mountain terroir. Give this baby 15 years in the cellar to spread its wings and it will undoubtedly develop in one heck of a wine.