The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon begins with an expressive nose of fresh red stone fruit, where bright red plum notes sing out vividly, creating an inviting and fruit-forward impression. On the palate, the wine has a slight bite, delivering a zesty acidity that carries through to a high-acid finish, giving it a lively edge. A “zazzle” of tannins adds texture and structure, suggesting a youthfulness that could benefit from some breathing time. Decanting for 15-30 minutes before tasting in fall 2024 allowed the wine to reveal its full potential, smoothing the tannins and rounding out the flavors.
2018 as a year
The 2018 growing season was a hot drought year, which yielded an opulent crop for Paloma, resulting in an abundance of fruit on the vine. The heat and dry conditions concentrated flavors and sugars, producing a Cabernet with intense fruit character and a vibrant structure. This vintage pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like spaghetti, as the wine’s bright acidity and rich fruit profile complement savory flavors and enhance the dining experience.