2017 Rudd, Leslie's Blend, Mount Veeder, Bottle (750ml)

RP96+ This is the second vintage of this label, named after the recently departed Leslie Rudd, who particularly loved this vineyard perched at 1,600 feet on Mt. Veeder. A blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot and 6% Malbec, the 2017 Leslie's Blend Mt. Veeder Estate sports a deep garnet-purple color and a compelling perfume of Black Forest cake, stewed plums, Christmas pudding and Chinese five spice with nuances of candied violets, dark chocolate, camphor and unsmoked cigars. Medium to full-bodied, the palate coats the mouth with intense, impactful black fruit preserves, beautifully framed by electric tension and plush tannins. The long finish is laced with exotic spices. 375 cases were made.