Stylish and understated in feel, with an inviting range of cassis, cherry puree and plum preserves leading the way, supported by a backdrop of violet, singed vanilla, sandalwood, sassafras and a subtle iron hint. Accessible but there's no rush, as this has the depth and balance to cellar nicely. Drink now through 2035. 354 cases made.??–JM??Region: California / Napa / Rutherford Select to Add

A plush, ripe style, with nice curved edges to the mix of cassis, plum puree, melted red licorice and alder. Everything knits nicely through the finish, too. Accessible for the fruit, but there's no rush. Drink now through 2034. 340 cases made.??–JM??Region: California / Napa / Rutherford Select to Add

My favorite of the Etude Cabs in this report is the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford, sourced from the Gary Morisoli Vineyard. Featuring scents of dusty earth and red berries, those elements are followed by a full-bodied, wonderfully lush, richly textured palate, then cassis and dark chocolate notes on the finish. This epitomizes plush valley-floor fruit—drinkable now, with as much as two decades of enjoyment ahead.

Very expressive, with violet and cassis notes streaming through while the polished and persistent structure runs underneath. Lovely flashes of savory and sweet toast notes line the finish. Very solid. Drink now through 2030. 200 cases made.??–JM??Region: California / Napa / Rutherford Select to Add

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford was aged for 20 months in French oak, 75% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it delivers ripe, spicy notes of prunes, fruitcake and Chinese five spice with a waft of hoisin. The full-bodied palate is packed with spicy plum preserves flavors and well-managed, chewy tannins, finishing with a peppery kick. 200 cases were made.