REALM THE ABSURD 750ML 2014

A blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot, is the 2014 The Absurd, basically a choice of their finest barrels, or as winemaker and owner Benoit Touquette says, “The crème de la crème.” This is another perfect wine equaling their incredible 2013. Yet the 2014 is slightly more forward and showy, as many 2013s are just beginning to shut down. There are 250 cases of this majestic wine that has an opaque purple color, extraordinary nose of spring flowers, blueberry, blackberry, creosote, charcoal, toast and spice. The wine has unbelievable fruit on the attack, midpalate and finish, compelling purity, texture and a finish of close to a full minute. It is (as advertised by the winery) a “showcase of the best of Napa Valley with the freedom of expression that results from no rules.” Drink now-2035.

The 2014 The Absurd is another terrific wine from Realm. Expressive floral aromatics, red-toned fruit and silky tannins speak to elegance. The combination of fruit intensity and finesse is unusual at Realm during this era. Then again, the Absurd is a selection of the best barrels in the cellar. Pomegranate, blood orange, mint and new leather all meld together effortlessly. There's a gorgeous floral lift on the finish, a signature of Cabernet Franc pulled from a top site in Oakville.