96 pointsWine Advocate

The 2017 Blacktail Proprietary Red Blend MMXVII is a blend of 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Malbec, 23% Petite Sirah and 4% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple in color, it is a little closed to begin, requiring some swirling to reveal a seducing perfume of lilacs, baked plums, blueberry pie and spice cake with hints of potpourri, unsmoked cigars and chocolate mint. The palate is medium to full-bodied and concentrated, but not in the least heavy, delivering layer upon layer of perfumed black fruits and a velvety texture, finishing fragrant and long, long, long. It is an exercise in polish and poise. (LPB)(10/2020)

93 pointsJeb Dunnuck

The 2017 Proprietary Blend Blacktail is a terrific red from this challenging vintage, and it has some upside as well. Based on 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Malbec, 23% Petite Sirah, and the balance Petit Verdot, it offers beautiful purity of fruit as well as notes of violets, spice, and peppery herbs. With good acidity, ripe tannins, and outstanding balance, its going to be even better in 2-4 years and evolve for over a decade. 93+(1/2021)

92 pointsJames Suckling

A juicy, fruity red with currants, plums and hints of chocolate, as well as mahogany. Full body. Plenty of spice and berries.(1/2020)