JD
100
Jeb Dunnuck
One of the two perfect wines in the lineup, the 2019 Cariad is 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot, all from David Abreu’s Madrona Ranch Vineyard. Brought up in two-thirds new French oak, it has a regal, noble, full-bodied style that carries incredible tannins and balance, as well as off-the-charts purity in its floral, chocolate, lead pencil, and assorted red, blue, and black fruits. The tannins’ quality is truly something, and it’s rare to find a wine offering this level of purity, balance, and intensity at the same time. As with most 2019s, it already offers ample pleasure, yet smart money will give these 3-4 years, and it’s capable of evolving for 30 to 40 years. Reviewed by Jeb Dunnuck, Issue date: March 2022, Drinking window: 2025 - 2055.
RP
99
Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Cariad is Colgin’s stunning expression of David Abreu’s Madrona Ranch vineyard, where the oldest plot is now 36 years old. Even more Cabernet Franc went into the blend this year, giving the wine a captivating brightness. This 2019 simply shimmers!
Composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot and 7% Petit Verdot, the deep purple-black colored 2019 Cariad opens with wonderfully fragrant, earthy scents of dusty soil, iron ore and crushed rocks, over a core of black raspberries, warm cassis, red roses and juicy black plums, plus hints of pencil shavings and bouquet garni. Full-bodied, the palate features a rock-solid backbone of firm, grainy tannins and loads of minerally sparks with beautiful freshness, finishing very long and savory. Reviewed by Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Issue date: October 2021, Drinking window: 2024 - 2055.
V
100
Vinous
The 2019 Cariad is outrageously beautiful right out of the gate. Soaring aromatics and gorgeous fruit race out of the glass, all supported by bright acids and vibrant tannins that lend energy. In 2019, the Cariad is truly exceptional. As always, most of this fruit is from David Abreu's Madrano Ranch. There is a feeling of dimension and breadth here that is truly remarkable. Reviewed by Antonio Galloni, Issue date: October 2021, Drinking date: 2027 - 2044.