Freakshow cabernet sauvignon 2020 (Michael David Winery)

Cellar for up to 9 years. No need to decant before serving. The Phillips family have been growing fruit and vegetables in Lodi since the 1860s, but it was only in 1984 that brothers Michael and David started making wine here with little more than an barn, a few barrels and an old press. Today the duo have over 800 acres of vineyards and have instituted a strict series of regulations called the Lodi Rules to make the winery as sustainable as possible and preserve it for the next generation of the family. In 2020 they were named Wine Enthusiast’s American Winery of the Year in recognition of this groundbreaking work. Despite their serious commitments to winemaking and the environment, the winery produces fun, light-hearted wines that are full of big flavours. Their Freakshow Cabernet comes from an exceptional vineyard located a short hop away from the winery. The fruit is harvested at optimum maturity and spends 14 months ageing in French oak barrels after vinification. The result is a muscular, robust wine reminiscent of the strongman featured on the label. On the nose there are seductive raspberry, plum and dark cherry notes along with toast, vanilla and hints of sweet baking spice. There’s a robust full body, smooth tannins and a long finish, making this a great match for barbecued meats, tomato-based pasta dishes, or charcuterie.