95 Points - Bonfort's Wine & Spirits Journal
While it lasts. Less than a 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.
Grapes for this were meticulously handpicked Mt Veeder hillside vineyard west of the Napa Valley. Farmed sustainably, and aged in French oak barrels for 24 months. The result is a harmoniously intricate flavor profile that exudes sophistication.
Pairings include Bone-in pork chop, duck confit, earthy cheese, slow-roasted prime rib, chocolate truffle, even a fine cigar by the fireplace.
HISTORY
Previously named Andrew Cain, now under the name of Andrew Cotti, the same winery with a slight name change. Founded by brothers, Jason “Andrew” Hooten and Jonathan “Cain” Hooten. Born and raised in Napa, CA, both brothers have worked in the Wine & Spirits industry for a combined 55+ years.
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 Bonfort’s Wine & Spirits and more.
VINTAGE: 2022
VARIETAL: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon / 5% Petit Verdot
APPELLATION: Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley
AGING: Aged 24 months in French Oak barrels / 30% new
pH: 3.64
TA: 5.91 g/L
ALCOHOL: 14.7%
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.
97 Points
Lush and fleshy, with cassis, boysenberry, and blackberry notes guided by hints of alder and mesquite. Stays open but defined through the finish, with a buried hint of sweet tobacco. A rich, layered beast, this has a nose rife with currants, blackberries, vanilla, and light toast with flavors of mocha, plum, and Bing cherry that mingle harmoniously on the tongue.
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
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.
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