So it's come to this after over 100 reviews, several rants, and collaborators coming and going. The final review for 2022. We saved the best for last and the two of us met in person to review this one together: a fine-fitting end of this year's editorial output. This is some of the best of the best from the Catena family vineyards, and after the previous bottle, we are confident this is going to be quite the encore.
Nose: Blackberries galore with cassis and vanilla following suit after a bit of time. There's not much spice at first, but it gradually cuts up from below to keep things interesting after several passes. With a bit more rest there's some violet and cedar.
Palate: Blackberry and vanilla forward, as presented on the initial passes. With time violet and more of the oak and baking spice give this an incredibly balanced approachability, with medium acidity and tannins. It keeps cycling through fruity, herbal, and earthy endlessly and effortlessly.
Finish: Medium length and keeps the cycle going. Eventually, the blackberry has the final word with a very quiet and graceful end note.
What a splendid, decadent, inspiring season finale.
$110