ORW Lodi Estates Cab '22

From Lodi's historic Mokelumne River vineyards, this Cabernet showcases the region's ability to balance power with polish. Inky purple with violet reflections, it offers a nose of crème de cassis, tobacco leaf, and a distinctive graphite minerality from the area's sandy loam soils. The palate is full-bodied but nimble, with layered flavors of blackberry compote, dark chocolate, and a touch of dried sage—Wine Advocate (93 pts) praises its "unexpected elegance for Lodi," noting the tannins are present but finely polished (peak drinking 2025–2035). Aged 18 months in 30% new French oak, it retains vibrant acidity. Pair with dry-aged ribeye or wild mushroom ragout. Only 600 cases made.