Darius II (Darioush) Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012

93 points Connoisseurs’ Guide: “[$225 list] Calling this Cabernet “extravagant” is a bit of an understatement, and it will not be well-received by those who cannot abide rich oak and ripeness, but the rest of us will revel in its remarkable depth and expansive display of intense, currant fruity and far-reaching varietal complexity. It is fleshy and quite full in body with a touch of plushness on entry, yet it is never other than solidly structured, and its extraordinarily long-lasting fruit effortlessly powers through the full complement of unmistakable Cabernet tannins that rushes up at the finish. Even if there is little about it that is shy or retiring, it is not a wine to be hastily enjoyed, and it comes with the strongest urging that it be hidden away for no fewer than another six to eight years. (Aug 2016)”

92 points Wine Spectator: “Beautifully crafted, offering a powerful yet elegant and refined mix of zesty, extracted blackberry, black licorice, spice, cedar, mineral and mocha notes, ending with a long, lingering aftertaste that keeps repeating the fruit themes. Drink now through 2029. 575 cases made. (11/30/16)”

92 points James Suckling: “This is a fruit-forward style with loads of ripe and juicy fruit plus plenty of jammy undertone. Yet it remains fresh and resilient. Full and soft textured. Drink now. (5/3/16)”

92 points Wine Enthusiast: “[$225 list] The winery’s top of the top, this is a viscous, concentrated expression of the grape, blended with 5% Merlot, the fruit from the producer’s estate Sage Vineyard on Mount Veeder. Chocolate, blackberry, sage and meaty grips of black pepper and anise compete for attention amid all the ripeness and intensity, finishing with surprising softness. Alcohol 14.8%. (Nov 2016)”