Rudd Leslie's Blend Mt. Veeder 2018

97 points Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Wine Advocate): "This is the third vintage of this label, named after the recently departed Leslie Rudd, who particularly loved this vineyard perched at 1,600 feet on Mt. Veeder. Composed of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec, the 2018 Leslie's Blend Mt. Veeder Estate has a deep garnet-purple color, offering up vibrant scents of freshly crushed black plums, wild blueberries and black currant cordial with nuances of pencil shavings, tar, new leather, Indian spices and forest floor. The full-bodied palate is packed with crunchy black fruits with loads of earth and mineral sparks, framed by firm, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and layered. 388 cases were made. Drink: 2023-2045. (Jan 2021)"

95 points James Suckling: "Aromas of blackcurrants, pine needles, bark, spice and hints of hazelnut. Medium to full body, polished tannins that are firm at the end. Shows length and focus. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 20% merlot, the rest malbec, cabernet franc and petit verdot. Drinkable now, but better in two or three years. (11/1/22)"

94 points CellarTracker.com community score.