Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red 2021

WA96+: The components of the 2021 Proprietary Red barely changed relative to the barrel sample I tasted last year, with 61% of the fruit being estate grown (Stagecoach and Waters Ranch), with the remainder coming from Upper Range (35%) and Vangone (4%). Dominant scents of cassis mark the nose, joined by hints of dark chocolate, black cherries and pencil shavings. This full-bodied wine is firm and muscular but with enough baby fat that you could try one now if you had a big steak on hand. The lingering, dusty finish adds savory tones of black olive and dried herbs. 2,605 cases produced.