Aged for 20 months in French oak barrels (45% new), the final blend is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec. Fragrant cherry and raspberry fruit mingle with cherrywood and cinnamon spice. Medium-bodied on the palate, with intense, grippy tannins framed by crunchy Carneros acid tension. The finish is savoury, revealing green olive, sage, and more tannin that builds with serious intensity. The structure suggests excellent ageing potential, though the lack of overt ripe fruit indicates it may develop secondary characteristics more quickly—perhaps an advantage in an era when most wines are consumed too early.

Truchard's 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is the best I can recall from this reliable Carneros producer. Black cherries and cassis are joined by hints of vanilla and violets on the nose, while the medium-bodied palate is streamlined and smooth—a linear style with ample concentration and length, focused and fresh, with some slightly herbal notes on the finish.