Blackbird Vineyards Contrarian Napa Valley 2016
64% Cabernet Sauvignon; 29% Cabernet Franc; 7% Merlot. 21 months in French oak barrels, 75% new. From Ballard Vineyard, Hudson Vineyard, and Stagecoach Vineyard.
Contrarian flies in the face of our own conventions. Emboldened by Cabernet Sauvignon, Contrarian possesses Blackbird's signature aromatic richness alongside bold tannins that draw a striking contrast to the rest of the flock. Uniquely, therefore, from Blackbird, this is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend. Complex and expressive with aromas of blackcurrant, cherry and truffle, Contrarian is ripe to impress with its notable density, tight tannins and illustrious texture: rich, concentrated, and intense. With a long finish of black liquorice, blackberries, plum and toffee, this evolves tremendously on the palate. Captivating now and will continue to develop in the cellar for another 15 years.