The 2018 Phoenix, a blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, is gorgeous. Floral, spiced and super-expressive, the Phoenix is a very pretty and distinctive wine. Merlot and Cabernet Franc are so distinctive at Hudson, as they are in blends like this one. Vibrant, energetic and savory, the 2018 has so much going on. This is a terrific showing.

The 2018 Phoenix is a blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc and was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, 80% new. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the nose is redolent of warm plums, black cherries and black raspberries with suggestions of garrigue, menthol, pencil lead and roses. Medium-bodied, velvety and with great freshness, the palate delivers vibrant, crunchy fruit and a good long, mineral-tinged finish. 1,110 cases were made.

Refined and well-structured, with pure-tasting dried red fruit and savory spice flavors that feature fresh acidity. Dried green herbal accents linger into the minerally finish. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2025. 1,110 cases made.

There are a handful of reds from this estate, all of which showed well. The 2018 Phoenix (60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc) reveals a pretty, medium-bodied, elegant style as well as lots of berry and ripe cherry fruits, notes of spice and dried herbs, some chocolaty oak, and outstanding length.