La Stella 2018 Espressivo 750ml

I tasted this just after bottling, so it's a preview of what's to come. This year's Tuscan-inspired Espressivo blends 38% cabernet franc, 30% cabernet sauvignon, 21% merlot, 11% sangiovese, with 5% new oak. This year shows SO much peonies, swept along a plush, fleshy, velveteen texture. Black cherry, espresso, leather, is held fresh with naturally rising acidity, but firmly in place thanks to the predominance of the cabernets. Distinctly Okanagan, with an Italian vivace, this drinks lovely now, and will reward with cellaring. Looking forward to tasting again in a few months.I tasted this just after bottling, so it's a preview of what's to come. This year's Tuscan-inspired Espressivo blends 38% cabernet franc, 30% cabernet sauvignon, 21% merlot, 11% sangiovese, with 5% new oak. This year shows SO much peonies, swept along a plush, fleshy, velveteen texture. Black cherry, espresso, leather, is held fresh with naturally rising acidity, but firmly in place thanks to the predominance of the cabernets. Distinctly Okanagan, with an Italian vivace, this drinks lovely now, and will reward with cellaring. Looking forward to tasting again in a few months.

Score: 90 points -- Treve Ring, gismondionwine.com, 2020