So much fruit that the mouthfeel seems slightly sweet. Similar to the last bottle I had in 2016, this seemed to be just fruit and fizz. I wouldn't kick this out of bed, but some acidity, minerality and yeast would do wonders for this wine.

Similar to previous experiences. This is my favorite domestic sparkler, and it drinks similar to real champagne.

My second try with this wine, and again it does not deliver at the level I think it should. This wine is powerful with almond extract, pear and a mix of sweetness and acid. To me, this is the opposite of refined. This wine doesn't resemble champagne or any sparkling wine I've ever had.

This wine resembled a grand cru Chablis or a white burgundy. There is some French oak, and it lends support instead of dominating. Golden yellow fruit, lemon, spice, minerality is evident. Why don't I buy this more often?

Pop and pour. The nose is off the hook with funk, earth and tar. This smells like some of the better red Burgundies that I've had. The palate does not quite measure up, but it is no slouch. The palate is red-fruited and elegant with crisp red cherry. I don't really get any minerality, it is all elegant fruit and a touch of vanilla.

Slow o'd 8 hours. This didn't quite measure up to the last bottle, but it was still pretty nice. Text book traditional California cabernet.

Decanted 2 hours. This wine was weird. Initially there was distinct christmas candy, which came and went until it mellowed into more of a mint or eucalyptus element. This wine is not shy, there are a lot of outstanding smells and flavors to it. Tangy berry, cassis, graphite, a little licorice.

Decanted 3 hours. This is a gorgeous and elegant young Almaviva. You really should let them sit, but it is silky and accessible with said decant. There is that distinct carmenere green funkiness to it, but it is not overpowering and adds interest to the wine. If you like wines young, powerful and yet elegant, drink now. Else, wait.

Splash decanted. This wine was balanced and easy to drink. It is primarily fruit and kind of "slurpable". I was hoping for more complexity.

1 hour decant. This wine resembles a very balanced Southern Rhone of modest producer. It seems fully integrated right now, not overly youthful and not showing any signs of decline. Overall, the price of about $40 seems appropriate or just slightly high. I have seen reviewers wax poetic about this wine, and the 6 bottles I've consumed do not agree with that. One 750 and one 375 left. When to open?