The 2017 J. Daniel Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon is made of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Calistoga, Oakville and Stags Leap. It was aged 20 months in 75% new French oak. Mole Hill fruit was declassified this vintage because of smoke taint. Very deep purple-black in color, it starts out slightly muted and broody, with coaxing revealing notions of baked black currants, blackberry compote and plums preserves followed by notions of tar, chargrill, sautéed herbs and pencil lead plus a hint of Marmite toast. Full-bodied, the palate has nice ripe, fine-grained tannins and a refreshing backbone cutting through the savory flavors, finishing long and just a little firm.