Forgeron 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon (Walla Walla Valley (WA))

This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon rested for two years in French oak—20% new and 80% neutral. Black cherries and the waxiness of a vanilla-scented candle are the first aromas to hit the nose. The second wave features orange soda, mint and a touch of dried sage. The wine is medium bodied, with fine-grained tannins and low levels of soft acidity. Generous amounts of sweet blackcap raspberry and blueberry flavors do an easy waltz with somewhat bitter notes of raw almonds and orange pith—an easy sipper if there ever was one. Michael Alberty