93 Points, Wine Spectator
92 Points, James Suckling
Howell Mountain develops an intensity and concentration of fruit unlike its other Napa counterparts. Beautiful now and will age gracefully for another 10-15 years... that is if you can wait that long.
VINEYARDS
Candlestick Ridge Vineyard on Howell Mountain is situated at 1400 feet, planted to a combination of decomposed volcanic ash and red clay. While it receives twice as much rain as the valley floor, the soil remains dry to its porous composition. Notable vineyards that work with the fruit include Vineyard 36, Robert Craig, and Duckhorn Vineyards.
WINEMAKING NOTES
Fermented in small 4-6 ton open top fermenters, with thrice daily pump overs for cap management. Upon finishing fermentation the wine is allowed to rest on its skins for up to a month. Aged in 55% new French oak for 18 months.
VINTAGE
From start to finish, 2018 was a very steady season, offering weather that was reminiscent of years prior to drought. Higher than average yields and excellent quality brought about a fruitful harvest beginning in late August.
Consulting Winemaker: Keith Emerson
Vintage: 2018
Varietal Composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: Howell Mountain, Napa Valley
Aging: Aged in 55% new French oak for 18 months.
Brix: 25.1
pH: 3.75
TA: 0.56 g/100ml
Alcohol: 14.5%
93 Points
A beautiful garnet color in the glass. Aromas of pomegranate, vibrant cranberry, candied strawberry, gravel, and rose perfume lead to a palate of cinnamon, clove, tea leaf, bing cherry, a touch of earth, and an opulent, fleshy texture.
95 Points
This stellar Napa Valley Red Blend marries lush plum and cherry with Malbec's dark berry depth and Petit Verdot's structure and spice. Layered with notes of blackberry, violet, and cocoa, this silky wine finishes with smooth tannins and a whisper of toasted oak. Robust and mouth-filling, with spicy nuances, smooth tannins, firm structure, and a long lingering finish.
94 Points
Aromas of candied apple, lemon peel, and toasted marcona almond. The palate is rich yet finely balanced, offering a creamy texture lifted by bright acidity. Delicate and composed, it finishes with a gentle mineral snap and lingering citrus.
97 Points
Rich dark fruit flavors of blackberry and cherry with notes of baking spices, licorice, coffee, and chocolate that interlace seamlessly with complexity, creating a wine that is both structured and delightfully supple, achieving an ideal balance of tension and grace. Artfully composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon with 17% Cabernet Franc, resulting in harmonious depth and freshness.
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