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
Dark ruby red in the glass, and good swirl on the nose offers generous aromatics of cassis, black cherry and spice. Generously oaked, with crushed blackberry, baked plums, baking spices, and Turkish fig. A supple body, gives way to red and dark fruit like plum, blueberry compote, prune, with anise and light spice on the finish.
92 Points
Lofty aromas of ripe red fruits layered with notes of crushed violets, berry cobbler, cherry and creme brulee leading into crushed blackberry with cassis, mocha, leather, mineral, and baking spice. Its all encompassing and bold mouthfeel are outstanding, as deep tannins dance around the palate, finishing with flavors of blackberry, fig, and pipe tobacco.
Exceptional
Aromas of bright oak, essence of lilac, toasted brioche and sage delight your senses. Flavors are just as complex with hints of soft melted butter, quince, fig, and a touch of lavender that titillate your taste buds. Its delightful texture is balanced by great acidity, leading to a long satisfying finish. Truly a chardonnay lovers Chardonnay.
