Because 2016 was such a good vintage winemaker Ilya Senchuk took full advantage by creating his first ever best vintage / best blend: 35% Cabernet Franc and 17% Cabernet Sauvignon along with 40% Merlot and 8% Syrah with an average ageing time of 20 months in barrel. This wine finds a great middle ground between fruity and spicy with hints of oak/cedar and rich robust tannins that grip the tongue and won’t let go … it even has some smoky and floral elements to add finesse into the mix. This one is built to last, so give it 4 years to integrate, then it’s got a decade to go from there (drinking window: 2022-2032). Price: $55.00 – Rating: ****+