Drink now or cellar for up to 14 years. No need to decant before serving. Powerful and muscular in style, this big Cabernet is the handiwork of winemaker Austin Hope whose family moved to Paso Robles in the 1970s. Initially farmers and grape growers, the family began making their own wines in 1995 and have built an impressive reputation for serious reds. Previous vintages have made Wine Enthusiast’s Top 10 Wines from across the world, proving that this very special bottle punches far above its price tag. The Hope family source the grapes for this bottling from top quality plots in Paso Robles. Here the gently rolling hills, warm sunny days and cooling breezes from the nearby Pacific Ocean allow the Cabernet grapes to reach optimal ripeness without compromising on balance. The vineyards here are planted at 1000ft on ancient sea beds which are rich in fossils and help preserve freshness and elegance in the wine. Austin vinifies and ages individual lots separately for 11 months in French oak and then blends the wine and ages the finished wine for a further 3 months to harmonise and add extra complexity. As soon as you pour out a glass you’ll notice the seductive cassis, blackberry and dark cherry aromas which are complemented by hints of leather, woodsmoke and tobacco. The first sip reveals a generous full body and smooth yet bold tannins with a very long finish.