2019 VDF '53'

Clean nose - beautiful cassis and wild blueberry, blackberry and boysenberry aromas. No green. Deep and sexy, and the fruit is elevated without being intense. Smells fresh too, schisty. Same on the palate – violets, wild berries and a hint of liquorice. Fresh and deep without being heavy, it has pure fruits and a full mid palate. Great tension on the finish, especially with a slight chill (recommended). The aniseed notes are subtle but inviting. Really delicious and smooth. Grainy tannins, but they aren’t super prominent. No green bell pepper in sight, this is a stellar example of old vine Cabernet. It has that old school charm, with a new school freshness. I am kicking myself that I didn't order way more of this, as it is ridiculously good for the price.