Heitz Cellars "Martha's Vineyard" Cabernet Sauvignon - 2009

Over the years California's cult producers and their big bold Cabs have captured most of the spotlight. Much to their credit, however, Joe and Alice Heitz never tried to bend toward that light. For half a century they kept their old-timey label and remained firm in their belief of producing beautifully balanced, terroir-driven wines. They began farming organically and biodynamically in the 1980s, and even though the winery was recently purchased by an agricultural magnate from Arkansas, little has changed. The 2009 "Martha's Vineyard" is one of the best Heitz wines I've ever had. Give this some time to breathe and be amazed as it evolves in the glass. Initially, aromas of dark fruit, green pepper, eucalyptus, and mint give way to earthy cherries and tobacco. It's rich yet elegant and refined. A shining example of what Cali Cab can be.