100 pointsJeb Dunnuck

Pure perfection from Paso Robles, the 2019 Estate Cuvee checks in as 50% Syrah, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot that was raised in 81% new French oak. Incredible cassis and black berry fruits as well as violets, chocolate, graphite, and who knows what else emerges from the glass, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a concentrated yet weightless mouthfeel, building tannins, and a great finish. Its more seamless and approachable than the more backward, structured 2018 and will have two decades of prime drinking.

97 pointsJames Suckling

Blackcurrants, crushed stone and lavender with some rosemary. Full-bodied, yet it spirals deep and true on the palate, with creamy tannins and a dark, brooding finish. Provocative on the palate. Asphalt and spice notes.

97 pointsVinous

Opaque ruby. A highly complex, expansive bouquet evokes smoke-accented black and blue fruits, oak spices, incense, mocha and potpourri. Sappy, sharply delineated cassis, blueberry and cherry preserve flavors show energetic mineral lift and betray no rough edges. In an ample but lively style, finishing smoky and wonderfully long, with a resonating cherry note and chewy tannins that sneak in late. (JR)