2018 Abreu Cabernet Sauvignon Thorevilos

This doesn't pull any punches, with a deep well of compact black currant and blackberry paste flavors entangled with cast iron, singed tobacco leaf and warm paving stone notes. Shows the earth-driven grip of the '18s, with the fruit tucked in reserve for now, so best to wait for this to unfurl in the cellar. A big wine, with a nice bit of old school in the mix. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. 391 cases made.

Yes, the score is a bit of a cop-out, but as I had a slight preference for the 100-point Madrona Ranch, I just couldn't justify the same score for the 2018 Thorevilos Proprietary Red, however wonderful this wine might be. It splits the difference between 2016 and 2017 in terms of its fruit expression, with dark cherries and cassis joined by gentle floral-herbal nuances on the nose. It's full-bodied in the mouth, concentrated and pure, with a lengthy, refreshing finish that adds brighter raspberry notes and hints of fine leather. Just gorgeous.

Yes, the score is a bit of a cop-out, but as I had a slight preference for the 100-point Madrona Ranch, I just couldn't justify the same score for the 2018 Thorevilos Proprietary Red, however wonderful this wine might be. It splits the difference between 2016 and 2017 in terms of its fruit expression, with dark cherries and cassis joined by gentle floral-herbal nuances on the nose. It's full-bodied in the mouth, concentrated and pure, with a lengthy, refreshing finish that adds brighter raspberry notes and hints of fine leather. Just gorgeous.