Bonterra The Mcnab (Organic) 2020

It pours an opaque ruby hue and releases generous aromas of black currant, ripe plum, and blueberry compote layered with dark chocolate, vanilla bean, and a brush of wild sage. Grown on the biodynamic soils of McNab Ranch, the fruit ripens slowly, building dense color and firm tannin while retaining bright mountain acidity. Fourteen months in 25 % new French oak weave in mocha, cedar, and sweet-spice nuances, cushioning plush cassis and fig flavors that glide across a velvety palate. Notes of tobacco leaf, graphite, and earthy cocoa echo on the long finish, promising a decade of graceful evolution yet showing harmony right now after a brief decant.

Food pairing: Pepper-crusted rib-eye, rosemary lamb rack, portobello mushroom burgers, braised short ribs, aged cheddar, or 70 % dark-chocolate truffles.