Leviathan Cabernet Blend, 2022, California

The 2022 Leviathan reveals distinct aromas of blackberry bramble, black cherry, and chaparral. Savory spices and star anise meld with mineral, graphite, bay, and laurel reflective of the rocky Northern California terrain. With finely structured tannins, this wine is silky and elegant-yet persistent. It is approachable now and built to cellar for 10-plus years.A blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petite Sirah, 6% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Syrah and 2% Petit Verdot, it's loaded with black cherries and cassis. Still not overly complex, it's a big, full-bodied and crowd-pleasing red wine that proves you don't need to have residual sugar or use Mega Purple to fill this niche. Velvety textured, fruit forward and long on the finish, it's a fun, easy-drinking wine at a regular-person price.