When we first started Relic, we promised ourslves that we would not release a reserve-level wine unless we felt that something truly special was possible. After 15 years, we finally released our first reserve wine, ATMOS, in 2016 and then again only in 2021. Now in 2023, to our great delight, we feel that the stars have aligned once more. The 2023 ATMOS hails from two exceptional barrels of Kenefick Cabernet Sauvignon, blended with 12% Petit Verdot. Both of these lots are planted in a very special soil type called Cortina, which is comprised of small, jagged volcanic pebbles that have eroded from the hillside above. The result of these growing conditions is a wine that displays huge fruit, but also a great mineral streak and structure. Look for a deep black-purple color, aromatics of blackberry, bramble, five-spice, cracked pepper and floral notes. On the palate, ATMOS charges ahead with huge depth of flavor, a multi-layered texture and resounding length, framed by copious and seamless tannins.
A reserve release that's only produced in top vintages, always from Kenefick Ranch, the 2023 Atmos Proprietary Red Wine comes from just two barrels produced. Based on 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Petit Verdot aged 19 months in 100% new French oak, it's a truly sensational effort offering pure cassis and assorted currant fruits intermixed with spicy wood, spring flowers, smoke, and a Pessac-like scorched earth character. It's medium to full-bodied, with a flawlessly balanced mouthfeel, fine tannins, and a great finish. There are roughly 50 cases produced. Drink 2025-2045.
The 2023 ATMOS Proprietary Red Wine is a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple colored, it needs a little coaxing to bring out notes of black raspberries, red cherries, and crushed black currants, opening out to hints of lilacs, black pepper, and camphor. Full-bodied, the palate is shimmery and graceful with great tension and fine-grained tannins, finishing long and fragrant.
A velvety, luscious, structured and delicious wine based on cabernet sauvignon. Laced with fine-grained tannins, oozing blueberries, blackcurrants, creme de cassis and cocoa. So pure, creamy, luxurious and even drinkable now despite its layered and creamy texture. This is the top Bordeaux-style offering from Relic, not made every year. This vintage includes cabernet sauvignon and 12% petit verdot, both from Kenefick Ranch. Drinkable now, but best from 2030.
