Joel Gott 815 Cabernet Sauvignon, California, USA

This archetypal Cabernet has aromas of mocha, blueberry, plums, and spiced cherry. The Wine leads with fruit on the palate, supported by firm tannins mid-palate, followed by a long, balanced finish.

Don't be fooled by Joel Gotts casual, easy-going exterior. This fifth generation West Coast winemaker and restaurateur has remarkable energy and flair when it comes to sourcing and blending. The labels reflect the contents: stylish modern classics, restrained and yet with a typical Californian generosity. Joels wife Sarah is his director of winemaking, having previously risen to be head winemaker at Joseph Phelps. With this combined pedigree, the resulting wines punch well above their weight.

Napa fruit comes from highly regarded Howell Mountain as well as South Napa vineyards and is complex with great depth; Lake County fruit is from the Red Hills appellation, planted on obsidian volcanic soil, which lends minerality and rich texture; Central Coast fruit from Paso Robles and Hames Valley in Monterey County adds good flavour maturity and development. Parcels from Happy Canyon and the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County contribute further richness and concentration. Sourcing from these varied regions across California helped to create an elegant, balanced Red Wine.