2015 G. & C. Lurton, Trinité Estate, Acaibo Red, Sonoma County, California, USA

A blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc and 6% Merlot, the 2015 Trinite Estate Acaibo is medium to deep ruby-purple and opens with a fair bit of Brettanomyces character, with scents of horse sweat, cast-iron pan, beef drippings, cedar and graphite with bitter chocolate, dried herbs and a classy frame of new oak spice. Medium to full-bodied, it's minerally in the mouth with a great fruit core, firm, pleasantly chewy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and layered. So classic!

Drink 2020 - 2032

74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc.

The second year where the Lurtons were able to make a fully estate wine with no bought in grapes, and in their own winery building. This is rich and smooth, with elongated tannins and a clear precision in the playing off of different elements – the blueberry and bilberry flavours are vibrant and generous, set in relief against eucalyptus, charred oak and a fresh current of acidity. Organically farmed, hugely promising of what can be achieved on this site.

80% new oak

This is a bigger wine than the 2014 but it is better balanced, with slate-textured tannins, plenty of vibrant blueberry and raspberry fruit and a herb-drenched kick of freshness on the finish. Well-structured tannins, touches of charred oak and clear precision set against eucalyptus, saffron and a pulse of acidity. Organically farmed. The second year where the Lurtons were using entirely estate-grown grapes except for the press wine sourced from biodynamic properties overseen by viticulturalist Phil Coturri), and made in their newly-completed onsite winery.

Drink 2022 - 2036

Linear and tight with generosity and fine-grained tannins with lots of subtle blackberries, hazelnuts and dried flowers. So supple. Lovely now.