Christian Moueix's Napa Valley project Ulysses often produces a profound Cabernet, and this 2018 release of their Oakville red is about as profound as they come. A very pretty wine for the typically boisterous Ulysses, this vintage exudes a Margaux-like purity and levity, coupled with incredibly fragrant floral notes that turn savoury and sagebrush-driven, all with a keen sense of serenity. There's power and structure, of course, but with very velvety, fine-grained tannins that are perfectly integrated. With harmony and integrity through and through, this is a gorgeous wine that has been going to the cellar for a very long time.

The current-release 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon shows more cherries and bay leaf on the nose than prior vintages. There's still a solid framework of cedar, loam and cassis, hints of mocha and licorice, but there's also a bit more freshness and lift. It's medium to full-bodied and densely concentrated yet silky and finessed, with a long, elegant finish.