96 Points - Chris Sawyer "Sommelier to the Stars"
93 Points, Top 100 Wines, Gold Medal - Bonfort's Wine & Spirits Journal
Only about 100 cases made and we have just enough to share with you today. Approachable now, and has plenty of depth, structure, and complexity to lay down for another 10+ years if you can wait that long.
Food pairings include Grilled Rib Eye Steak · Lamb Sliders · Roast duck with a cherry reduction · Roasted Eggplant · Cheddar cheese · Flourless chocolate cake
HOWELL MOUNTAIN
One of the first sub-appellation of the Napa Valley AVA, Howell Mountain rises well above the valley fog. While coastal fog blankets the valley floor, the mountain's weather remains sunny and cool, as it sits at higher elevations, starting at 1,400 feet and reaching 2,300 feet resulting in warmer nights and cooler days compared to the valley floor. Its higher elevation yields nearly twice the rainfall of the valley below, yet the rocky, porous volcanic soil drains well, resulting in drier conditions. Cooler spring temperatures delay bud break, while warm summer nights foster a harmonious balance of acidity and sugar in the fruit. This gradual growth process produces small, concentrated grapes that yield robust, complex yet well-balanced wines. A truly unique combination of factors producing a diverse range of complex flavors in your glass. Overall, the altitude and rocky, dry soil conditions create wines with firm structure, incredible varietal intensity, and excellent aging properties.
VINTAGE
Mild spring in 2022 allowed for consistent bud break, and the region's elevated vineyards experienced cooler temperatures than the valley floor, helping preserve freshness and acidity in the fruit. Several heat spikes during the summer accelerated ripening, but careful irrigation and canopy management kept the vines in optimal condition. Cooler fall temperatures allowed for an extended harvest period, leading to balanced phenolic ripeness. We're very pleased with this vintage and only wish there was more!
WINEMAKING
Sustainable farmed grapes and grown organically, this wine was inspired by the land. Teaming up with veteran Napa Winemakers, Chris Agan (Joseph Phelps, Relic Cellars) and Eric Lyman (Judd’s Hill) for the past 14 years. Recent vintages have received 95 points and more.
VINTAGE: 2022
VARIETAL: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon / 5% Petit Verdot
APPELLATION: Howell Mountain, Napa Valley
AGING: Aged 22 months in French Oak barrels / 30% new
ALCOHOL: 15.3%
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
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