Alexander Valley Sonoma County California Wine Advocate 98 Rating Winemaker Jesse Katz and associate winemaker Hillary Sjolund continue to focus their efforts, and resources, to perfect this small-production varietal Malbec from Alexander Valley. Most exciting is the recent acquisition of the entire Farrow Ranch (76 acres), which will allow for a new vineyard-designate Cabernet Sauvignon from Devil Proof in the future. Katz and Sjolund have also integrated puncheons into their maturation program, with plans to include concrete in the future. The 2019 Malbec Farrow Ranch was matured in about 20% new 500-liter puncheons, and is a more lifted, elegant style than the ultra-concentrated 2018. Deep ruby-purple, it has a singular aromatic personality, bursting with pure scents of Morello cherries, boysenberries, cast iron, violets, thyme and milk chocolate, offering up new nuances with each return to the glass. The medium-bodied palate is velvety and energetic, with a very long finish. Only 424 cases of this stunning Malbec were made. SP40-1