Martin Ray 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon (Santa Cruz Mountains)

Country: US /
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon California
Winery: Martin Ray / Santa Cruz Mountains

Smoke, blackberries, black cherries, pencil lead and woody mints show on the nose of this wine from a label once owned by the California winemaking pioneer. The palate is heavily sprinkled with oregano, thyme and anise against a background of tart blueberry juice, and the tannins need some mellowing though 2017–2018, when it will drink even nicer.