The same blend as the 2017, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is another impressive, medium to full-bodied Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon from this team. Cassis, graphite, chalky minerality, and iron, as well as some classic Howell Mountain bouquet garni-like notes, all define the aromatics, and it's balanced, has ripe tannins, and lots of minerality on the finish.

The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a gorgeous wine. Inky dark fruit, gravel, scorched earth, lavender, game, spice and bittersweet chocolate all come alive as this striking, wonderfully nuanced Cabernet opens in the glass. A wine of stature and dynamic energy, the 2018 is just striking. This is an especially delicate, understated Cabernet for Howell Mountain.

This is solid, with a core of black currant and blackberry reduction notes that feel chiseled, while charcoal, tobacco, roasted apple wood and cast iron accents course underneath, giving this a rigidly structured, throwback persona. Patience is required.