2018 Saxum 4hearts Vineyard | Willow Creek District AVA, Paso Robles California 750ml

The curve ball in the Saxum lineup (besides the white). This wine spent 30 months in a mix of French and American oak. (Gasp, American?) Yes, and it's frickin' awesome. This is what you serve your friend that only likes "old world wine" when they come over. They'll say they hate it, but secretly they'll be loving every sip you "force" them to drink! 327 cases produced. | Justin Smith for Saxum

...reminds me of a great vintage of Ridge's Monte Bello Cabernet (I wouldn't be surprised if there was some American oak in here as well) with its blackberry, blueberry, cigar, and sappy flower aromas and flavors. It's full-bodied and offers a big, mouth-filling texture, beautiful balance, and a great finish. Give it a few years. | 96 points, Jeb Dunnuck for jebdunnuck.com