94 Points - Chris Sawyer "Sommelier to the Stars"
Beyond being full-bodied and balanced, there is also a playful side to this wine guided by the fresh acidity and natural vitality of pure mountain goodness. Soft, smooth and sophisticated. Authenticity is every sip.
To explore the unique characteristic of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown above the valley floor, this magnificent artisan-style blend is a crafted with high-quality fruit from two separate hillside vineyards. The first is in the high-elevation Mount Veeder appellation on the Mayacamas Range west of Napa, where the dense wooded area around the site help contribute hints of earth and spice to the wine. The other is grown in the slightly warmer conditions further north on Howell Mountain, where the more rugged and rocky soils on the Vaca Range add more concentrated flavors, a touch of minerality, and firm structure to the blend. A bohemian partnership above the valley!
Food Pairings: Earthy cheeses, charcuterie, wild mushroom risotto, roasted pork with fresh herbs, prime rib, osso buco, and rich stews.
Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: Napa Valley, Howell Mountain (50%) and Mt. Veeder (50%)
Alcohol: 14.8% by volume
Aging: 24 months on American oak
95 Points
Entices with aromas of Bing cherry, raspberry, and cedar spice. Indicative of the cool vintage, the wine carries a freshness throughout. The palate offers a harmonious balance between bright red fruit, spice, and nicely woven tannins.
93 Points
Aromas of blackcurrant, dark plum, and cedar unfold alongside soft notes of vanilla and toasted oak. On the palate, structured tannins frame layers of black cherry, baking spice, and a subtle herbal lift from the Merlot blended beneath the Cabernet's backbone. Medium-bodied gem with good concentration finishing long and warm, with lingering impressions of cocoa and dried fig.
96 Points
Aromas of Bing cherry, raspberry liqueur, and purple flowers drive the nose of this energetic Syrah which is co-fermented with a whisper of Viognier. Gracing the palate are dark berries, plum, blackberries, peppercorns, hints of sweet tobacco, and well-positioned oak spice with plush acid and rich tannin peaking through the finish.
