94 Points, James Suckling
This Delicious Napa Cab will age gracefully another 10+ years.
Vineyard
Volcanic benchland vineyards in the heart of Napa Valley east of the Mayacamas Range from a collection of tiny vineyard blocks all carefully planted to optimize sun exposure, in soil that is composed of ancient volcanic alluvial runoff and fine-grained loam.
Winemaking
Fermented in small 4-6 ton open top fermenters. Maintained moderate temperature until dry, and then basket pressed. Aged in 40% new French oak for 18 months.
Vintage
Although 2020 was met with several hurdles, we will forever recall the vintage to be one of resilience, perseverance, and unity. Shifts in temperature throughout the season resulted in shorter hangtime and lower yields, but the fruit retained bright acidity, resulting in lively wines. Diligence in testing coupled with a dedicated team proved key to navigating 2020. While yields may be a bit lessened, quality was fantastic.
Consulting Winemaker: Keith Emerson
Vintage: 2020
Varietal Composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: Oakville, Napa Valley
Aging: Aged in 40% new French oak for 18 months.
Brix: 24.2
pH: 3.74
TA: 0.59 g/100ml
Alcohol: 14.1%
All Wines
96 Points
Ruby-plum core with a light purple rim in the glass, with aromas of dark cherry, plum, spicy cola and black tea waft from the glass. The palate delivers all of that and then some, adding layers of cinnamon, clove, fig jam and white peppercorn. The finish shows the grip of some tannin that will help this wine evolve beautifully for the next 10-15 years.
94 Points
Aromas of cocoa mingle with notes of cassis, black cherry, blackberry coulis, graphite, toasted vanilla, and a hint of cedar. The palate is harmonious as the richness of barrel spice melds seamlessly with juicy plum, blackberry and licorice flavors. An incredibly polished texture, even at a young age. Long and expressive with loads of flavor.
92 Points
This is a rich, spicy and opulent Syrah. Intense garnet colored in the glass, the nose gives blackberry, plum, fresh raspberry and peppery aromas, while the palate displays a juicy berry compote, cassis, caramel and black pepper flavors before a rich, tannic finish. Four to five years in the cellar will round this out nicely.
PDF