($110): Distinctly different from Nickel & Nickel’s other single vineyard Cabernet bottlings, the one from State Ranch appears far more youthful at this stage with its tannic structure showing immediately.  It has similar black fruit mixed with nuances of black olives and other savory notes, finishing with a beautiful bit of bitterness in the finish.  The complexity is similarly enthralling, as with their other single vineyard Cabernets.  It’s the texture — more apparent tannins at this stage — that sets it apart.  Still, it’s easy to recommend for the cellar because the balance suggests it will evolve nicely.  If you can’t wait and you want it with a meaty grilled steak this summer, which would not be a bad idea at all, open and decant it for a few hours before serving.
94 Michael Apstein Jul 11, 2017