The 2012 Altra Napa Valley Winery Cabernet Sauvignon has a floral nose of Orris root (violets), licorice, fresh plums, cassis, cherries, and dark fruit with a hint of burnt caramel and roasted coffee.

In the mouth, compote of blueberry and currants comes forward in front of the chewy and velvet like tannins. The tannins are just the right size to create a lattice for the fruit so that it lingers on the palate. The scent of violets comes up over time, and the soft and velvet-like tannins are integrated into a delicious mouth feel.

The wine is showing great structure and balance at this early stage and should age well for the next 10 to 12 years.