2021 Morlet "Passionnément" Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

If there was any doubt that Luc Morlet can grow, make, select and blend Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Passionnement is Exhibit A refuting that argument. A terrific pure Cabernet Sauvignon mostly drawn from the Coeur de Vallée site in Oakville, supplemented by small elements from the estate vineyards in Saint Helena and Knights Valley, it screams in intensity yet somehow does so in near-perfect harmony. Blackberries, black cherries and blueberries mingle easily on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is supple and richly concentrated, plush and almost creamy in feel, then long and velvety on the never-ending finish. (JC)

Luc Morlet’s Passionnément is a barrel selection from Morlet's three estate vineyards: 9.7 hectares Cœur de Vallée in Oakville, the 2.4-hectare Morlet Estate in St. Helena, and the 2.4-hectare Mon Chevalier vineyard in Knights Valley. This is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, native yeast fermented in stainless steel tanks and puncheons, and aged for 16 months in 85% new French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. The synergy of the three estates comes together beautifully in this incredibly approachable yet profoundly structured wine. Layered and extravagant, but harmonious, with impressive complexity. For Morlet, rather than showcasing the individual terroirs, this blend aims to demonstrate that the sum is greater than its parts in the savoury, ripe, yet structured Morlet style. Medium to full-bodied, with rich, round, soft tannins that, despite their seamless integration, have real presence and firmness too. From the aromas to the finish, the wine is layered with a gorgeous, fragrant dark herb character, green tobacco, black liquorice, and streaks of graphite minerality that carry the wine throughout. (JC)