The 2023 Almaviva aromatically leads with its Carmnre component in this vintage, featuring typical merkn spice notes blended with gravel dust, dried herbs and anise aromas, all set against a bright, red-fruited core. The palate is lush and velvety but supported by a lively, tensile spine, leading to a refined, sturdy finish that emphasizes lush fruit flavors, polished tannins and an oak-derived backdrop. This is a decidedly fruit-driven yet still elegant expression of Almaviva, and its one that will be accessible in its youth as more structured vintages continue to mature in the cellar. This blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Carmnre, 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot matured for 20 months in 73% new French oak.