Auclair 2019 Left Blend Red (Red Mountain)

This is a magnificent Cabernet Sauvignon-driven Bordeaux-style blend. In the first few minutes, you will likely smell aromas of blackberry fruit leather, genuine leather (well-worn) and a note that will make you long for a sugar cookie. After a few swirls of the glass, cigar box, Chelan cherries and graphite appear. This could go on all night, so I'm stopping here. The wine's sturdy tannins and elevated acidity suggest aging potential. At the same time, the flavors of boysenberry jam, blood orange and vanilla will tempt you to drink up its youth. Enjoy 2022–2034. Michael Alberty