2016 Michael Mondavi - Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Animo

Always a crowd-pleaser in Eric Kent's Pinot roster, Stiling Vineyard produced some lovely raw materials to work with once again. Coming off of the dense and muscular 2015 vintage, the 2016 shows a more precise and energetic side of this massively popular Russian River favorite. While the wine is definitely the fullest-bodied Pinot the winery made this year, it maintains an alluring sense of balance -- and the team at EK thinks it’s one of the best yet. All of the best aspects of this prime Russian River location and the famed Swan clone are on display: Loads of creamy, smoky, ripe Bing and black cherries dosed with warm baking spices (clove and nutmeg predominantly) and the typically long, satisfying Stiling finish. With such an abundance of flavor, structure and detail, the 2016 has something for everyone.

Dark color with purple tint on the rim, black cherry, blackcurrant, and fresh prune. Powerful and unctuous with a lot of freshness. This vintage seems to be very approachable and well balanced. Tannins are dense and very silky. This amazing wine looks like a blend between the 2009 and 2016. 2018 is the ultimate generous wine. Blend: 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot