Bevan Cellars 'Ontogeny' Red Oakville 2023 750ml

Based on 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, and 12% Cabernet Franc, the 2023 Ontogeny shows ripe, sexy levels of blue fruits, darker chocolate, graphite, and even a kiss of minerality. It's full-bodied, round, lush, and layered, with sweet tannins and a pleasure-bent profile that's hard to resist. Drink this hedonistic pleasure bomb over the coming 15+ years. As always, this is an absolute brilliant Napa Cabernet Sauvignon that more than delivers the goods.

Approximately 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance a blend of other Bordeaux varieties, Bevan's 2023 Ontogeny Red Wine frames ripe cherries and a slightly leafy note with vanilla-stained oak. It's full-bodied and supple across the mid-palate, then finishes with a refreshing crispness that's not always apparent in other vintages of the Bevan wines. As usual, however, it represents a fine value among Napa Valley red wines.

The 2023 Red Wine Ontogeny is bold, punchy and super expressive. A blast of super ripe dark cherry fruit/plum fruit, spice, tobacco and chocolate are all beautifully amplified. Ontogeny delivers tons of Bevan personality and character. Floral and savory overtones extend the long, polished finish. The 2023 benefits from the inclusion of a few lots that I tasted last year separately that were later added into the blend, most notably the two Cabernets from Phelan Vineyard that I reviewed from barrel.