The black raspberry compote nose of the 2018 Hillside Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon blasts out of the glass with complete and total abandon. This belies the velvety smooth structure that relaxes out on the mid-palate. This truly is the filet mignon of our Cabernets. Its rich fruit flavors oscillate in and out, showing bright acidity notes juxta- posed with the sweet juiciness of farmer’s market produce , copycat- ting the complex flavors of a black pepper and white balsamic fruit salad. The finishing touch, as with all flavor symphonies such as this, is just the right amount of savory spice to round out the concerto. In this case, it is the hint of star anise on the finish that piques the audience member’s interest and lends an air of restraint to the otherwise ostentatious display of riches.