Mount Eden Vineyards, Santa Cruz Mountains

Decanter average score: 96/100pts Individual judges’ scores: Stephen Brook 96 Alex Hunt MW 97 Stefan Neumann MS 95 N/A UK www.mounteden.com One of California’s original boutique wineries, Mount Eden Vineyards was founded in 1945 by Paul Masson and Martin Ray. Winemaker Jeffrey Patterson has led this low-yielding estate since 1981, attributing its success to wine-growing, rather than winemaking. Surprisingly the heritage of the winery’s Cabernet Sauvignon vines can be traced back to the 1890s, when viticulturist Emmett Rixford obtained cuttings from Château Margaux in Bordeaux.

Stephen Brook Black fruits nose, with discreet new oak. Surprisingly approachable with a ripe fruit mid-palate. Vibrant, deft and fruity style.

Alex Hunt MW The palate has just the right ratio of gloss to structure; a firm core beautifully fleshed out by fruit. Impeccable harmony here.

Stefan Neumann MS Delicate, earthy aromas lead to a compact core with ripe fruit. Great potential, with great acid to back up the power.

Drink 2020-2030 Alcohol 14%