Favia Oakville Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 (750ML)

96+ Points, Joe Czerwinski, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "A blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville—like the other Favia Erickson wines—spent its élevage in approximately 50% new French oak. Hints of pencil shavings and dusty earth frame black cherries in this full-bodied wine. It's rich, tannic and velvety, so it should have a positive evolution, with seductive, savory hints of mocha on the lingering finish." 05/26

99 Points, Jonathan Cristaldi, Decanter: "Sourced primarily from Oakville Ranch, along with select fruit from the estate’s Oakville holdings, this wine consistently captures the signature character of Oakville, almost regardless of vintage. Aromas of classic Oakville spicebush and sagebrush are lifted by a touch of minty bay laurel freshness, layered over gorgeously dark berry fruit. A dusty, loamy earth minerality adds depth and nuance. On the palate, powerful tannins build through the full-bodied finish, supported by a firm spine of juicy acidity that lends tension and structure. The wine shows impressive energy and drive, remaining positively fresh in this vintage. Aged for 19 months in 50% new French oak." 03/26

96 Points, Antonio Galloni, Antonio Galloni: "The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville is somber and brooding. Blackberry, gravel, dried herbs, menthol, sage and incense open first, but only with great reluctance. Huge tannins make themselves felt on the finish. The 2023 should be terrific once the tannins soften and the aromatics start to open. Today, it's a tightly wound ball of energy. Readers will have to be patient. I look forward to tasting this again in another few years' time. Most of this fruit is from Oakville Ranch, but there is a bit from the new Favia estate as well." 11/25