97 Points - Bonfort's Wine & Spirits Journal
Grapes for this gem were meticulously handpicked from Napa Valley's Kenefic Ranch in Calistoga, aged in French oak barrels for 22 months. The result is a harmoniously intricate flavor profile that exudes sophistication.
Very approachable now, and has plenty of depth, structure, and complexity to lay down for another 5-8 years.
Less than a hundred cases EVER MADE and we have just enough to share with you today. While it lasts!
Pairings include Bone-in pork chop, duck confit, earthy cheese, slow-roasted prime rib, chocolate truffle, even a fine cigar by the fireplace.
Winemaking
Teaming up with veteran Napa Winemakers, Mark Jessup (Opus One, Mondavi) and Michael Quinn (Charles Krug, BV, Michael-Scott Wines). Recent vintages as well have received 94 to 96 Points by Christopher Sawyer, collected Gold Medals from the prestigious London Wine Competition, and featured in Napa Valley Life Magazine and Bonfort’s Wine & Spirits.
Vintage
In 2019, warm days and cooler nights in late August and early September were ideal for ripening the grapes and produced big, bold wines with huge fruit and tons of richness. We're pleased with this vintage and only wish there was more!
VINTAGE: 2019
VARIETAL: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
APPELLATION: Napa Valley, Calistoga
VINEYARDS: Kenefic Ranch in Calistoga
AGING: 22 months in 30% New American and French Oak barrels
pH: 3.61
TA: 6.11 g/L
ALCOHOL: 14.9%
94 Points
Dark purple in color it opens with explosive aromas of wild blackberry, and a touch of vanilla oak. The palate is bursting with ripe juicy flavors of boysenberry, raspberry and wild cherry, accented by layers of cedar, cacao, cinnamon and briary spice. It’s bold enough to stand up to any BBQ, yet smooth enough to sip on the patio as the sun goes down. Enjoy now and for the next 6-8 years.
95 Point Vintage
Opens with explosive aromatics of cassis, black plum, and sweet tobacco leaf, layered with warm baking spices (cinnamon and cardamom) and a light, complex ferrous mineral note. The Palate and mouthfeel is broad and sumptuous, bursting with flavors of juicy cherry pie, dark raspberry, and boysenberry compote.
The Finish carries a luxurious, savory presence showing undertones of leather, mocha, and milk chocolate, framed by supple, superfine tannins that melt into a long, polished finish.
98 Points
Deep purple hue and an alluring aromatic profile of fresh blue fruits and delicate violets. On the palate, it delivers a seamless and layered texture, framed by supple, polished tannins and a refined sense of balance. Elegantly structured, it offers remarkable purity and finesse, finishing with graceful length and poise.