Country: U.S.A.

Region: Central Coast

Vintage: 2016

Cépage: Cabernet Sauvignon (84%); Cabernet Franc (12%); Petit Verdot (4%)

Size: 750 ml

Rating(s): 97 (RP); 98 (JD); 94 (JS)

"The 2016 Soul of a Lion includes more Cabernet Sauvignon than the 2014 and 2015 and is 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot. It’s an incredible achievement and has sensational notes of crème de cassis, graphite, violets, and lead pencil shavings. Made in a pure California, pedal-to-the-metal style, with full body and loads of fruit, it stays balanced, has ultra-fine tannins, and a layered, seamless style that just glides over the palate. Don’t think Paso Robles can make world-class Cabernet Sauvignon? Try this wine."

Jeb Dunnuck (JD) - 11/18