Fairview Cellars 2017 The Bear 750ml

Previously called “The Bear’s Meritage” this is part of the “Premier Series” wines (along with the higher end Cabs).  A blend of five of the classic Bordeaux cultivars (Cab. Sauv., Merlot, Cab. Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot) with Cabernet Sauvignon being at least 50% of the blend, sometimes reaching as high as 75% of the blend in exceptional Cab. years.  The best barrels are always chosen for this wine, with the Cab. Sauv. grapes usually coming from a later picking to add to the complexity.  The wine is stored for longer periods of time in the barrel. (anywhere from 14 to 20 months)  The time “on the skins” is usually longer, again to achieve higher extraction from the skins.’