| Producer | Realm Cellars |
| Country | United States |
| Region | Napa Valley |
| Varietal | Red Blend |
| Vintage | 2022 |
| Sku | 19957 |
| Size | 750ml |
The 2022 Realm Cellars “Absurd” Proprietary Red is exactly what its name suggests—an unapologetically grand, meticulously crafted expression of Napa Valley at its most opulent and ambitious, shaped under the visionary direction of Benoit Touquette.
In the glass, it’s nearly opaque, a deep, inky violet that clings to the sides with slow, deliberate tears. The aromatics are immediate and commanding: waves of blackcurrant, blackberry compote, and dark plum surge forward, layered with violets, espresso, and melted dark chocolate. As it opens, more intricate notes emerge—graphite, crushed rock, and a polished oak profile of vanilla bean and baking spice that frames rather than overwhelms.
On the palate, the wine is expansive and full-bodied, yet remarkably composed given its scale. The fruit is dense and concentrated—black fruits at peak ripeness—supported by a powerful but finely knit tannic structure. There’s a richness here that borders on decadent, but it’s counterbalanced by a thread of freshness that keeps the wine from feeling heavy. Hints of licorice, mocha, and warm spice unfold through the mid-palate, adding layers of depth.
What distinguishes “Absurd” is its polish. Despite its intensity, everything is seamless—tannins, acidity, alcohol, and fruit all integrated into a cohesive whole. The finish is long, enveloping, and hedonistic, with lingering notes of dark fruit, cocoa, and a touch of savory minerality.
This is modern Napa at full throttle, yet executed with precision and control. Approachable now with extended decanting, it will reward patience over the next decade or more, evolving into something even more layered and expressive.
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