Philip Togni Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

Philip Togni Vineyard Cabernet is a very age-worthy Margaux-type blend of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot, Cabernet franc and Petit Verdot. One of the top vintages I have had the privilege to taste, Philip Togni's 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate starts quietly, with delicate, pretty notes of bay leaf and violets, then steadily grows into a crescendo of mixed red and black cherries and cassis. This medium- to full-bodied wine is concentrated, rich and dense yet never heavy or overdone; it's tannic but without any harshness, exhibiting awesome length and elegance on the finish. A classic Napa red with aromas of red and black currants, bark and dark mushrooms. Medium-bodied with firm and creamy tannins and a fresh finish. Chocolate on the palate. The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is outrageously beautiful. Graphite, lavender, crushed rocks, menthol and dark spice emerge with great reluctance. Then again, the 2023 was bottled just a few months before this tasting. It's a vivid, explosive Cabernet that will need at least a few years to be at its most expressive. Poor set lowered yields by about 25%, resulting in an unusually potent wine here. Captivating.