Coming from their estate vineyard on Pritchard Hill, this 2017 release is expressive and vibrant upon opening. When they first debuted in 2005, Tim Mondavi procured fruit from grower vineyards until their own estate was ready to be harvested in 2012. As I learned from Tim, their Pritchard Hill 60-acre planted vineyard is best explained geographically as Oakville with elevation, as it rests on the top of the Vaca Mountains above the Oakville AVA. "A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 9% Merlot, the deep garnet-purple 2017 Proprietary Red soars out of the glass with notions of baked blueberries, plum preserves and blackcurrant cordial, backed up by nuances of chocolate mint, wild sage, violets and pencil shavings, plus an earthy hint of Chinese five spice. The rich, seductive, full-bodied palate is jam-packed with spicy black fruit preserves, framed by wonderfully plush tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long and opulent." 97+ Points - Wine Advocate