Melka was a new brand for me that I wasn’t familiar with. This Napa-based winery produces only a few thousand cases a year under two major sub-labels, Matisse and CJ. Today we look at the 2010 CJ, named for the initials of the two children of Philippe and Cherie Melka. It’s unclear whose eyeballs are on the intriguing label, but Philippe is a bigshot consultant in these parts, so I’m guessing his.

This wine, 100% Cab, is very soft and initially quite tart. Lots of fresh berry notes on the tongue, with lots going on beneath. Designed to be youthful and consumed early in its life, this wine is fruity without being jammy. Blueberries, plums, even fresh apples… it’s in there, man! The fun isn’t over, though. Wait for the finish and a nifty caramel character comes along. Really lovely wine. Give it 15 minutes to breathe before you drink it.

A / $55 / melkawines.com

2010 Melka CJ Cabernet Sauvignon

$55

9.5

Rating

9.5/10

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Christopher Null

Christopher Null is the founder and editor in chief of Drinkhacker. A veteran writer and journalist, he also operates Null Media, a bespoke content creation company.

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