93 Points - Chris Sawyer "Sommelier to the Stars"
This deep, rich and powerful proprietary blend is made with world-class grapes grown at rugged rocky sites located in the high-elevation appellations of Howell Mountain (70%) and Mt. Veeder (30%) towering above Napa Valley. Distinct, complex, and a true Napa Valley gem with only 216 cases produced.
Food Pairings: Rich, round and opulent with dynamic mountain character. This is a great wine to pair with a selection of artisan style salami, hard cheeses, eggplant parmesan, wild mushroom raviolis, juicy steaks, gamey meats, slow-roasted stews, or rack of lamb.
Varietals: Cabernet Franc (52%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (38%) play the lead roles, with the smaller portions of Malbec, Petite Verdot and Merlot
Appellation: Napa Valley, Howell Mountain (70%) and Mt. Veeder (30%)
Alcohol: 14% by volume
Aging: 22 months on American oak
Inky, plush, and cellar-worthy
The nose is an aromatic riot—a decadent mashup of blackberry, black cherry, and plum swirled with whimsical notes of red licorice, vanilla, and cocoa. A savory dust of spice, cedar, and a gentle kiss of oak adds a sophisticated edge to this fruit-forward powerhouse.
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
Deep red-purple with aromas of black currents, blackberry, plum, chocolate, earthy forest floor, licorice, graphite, and subtle floral notes of violet, spice and cracked pepper. The palate is full, structured and balanced with blackberry, currant, black cherry fruit with notes of earth, firm acid and silky tannins. Finishes big with blackberry fruit and peppery spice.
