Merryvale Profile 2018

The flagship 2018 Profile checks in as a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. It’s not far off the style of the St. Helena Estate release yet has a touch more precision and purity, and maybe concentration. Dense purple-hued, with rocking notes of blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, graphite, chocolate, and freshly sharpened pencils, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a pure, layered mouthfeel, lots of ripe tannins, and a great finish. This is a brilliant wine, and it shows the style and class of this vintage nicely. It’s approachable today, given its balance and purity, yet will evolve for 25+ years. Maturity: 2031-2048. Score – 96. (jebdunnuck.com, Jan. 27, 2021)