2020 Clarity at The Water's Edge

Varietal(s): 56% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Franc, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Source: Oliver & Osoyoos Winemaking: 50 Months in 63% American Oak & 37% French Oak Nose: Blackcurrant, fruitcake, purple plums Taste: Black pepper, tobacco lead, blueberry reduction, velvet Label TL;DR: The name and label are layered with easter eggs—from Paul’s Tai Chi–practicing neighbors (clarity) to a mysterious squid whose story is for another day. This Bordeaux Blend ties it all together: in the UK they call it Claret (which rolls off the tongue like Clarity), while in French it simply means “the side of the water.” Even the squid’s colorful smoke nods to the blend itself—bright Merlot, herbaceous Franc, and jammy Cab Sauv. 14%