2018 Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve

Looking at the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, it's similarly hued to the 2019 yet brings a touch more intensity in its darker fruits, graphite, scorched earth, and chalky minerality. Unfortunately, it has a touch of smokiness on the palate, which gives the tannins a firmer edge and dries out the finish. Nevertheless, there's still plenty to like here, and this is one of those wines where it really breaks your heart to see that smokiness in it.