95 Points - Chris Sawyer "Sommelier to the Stars"
Food Pairings
Grilled Rib Eye Steak · Lamb Sliders · Roast duck with a cherry reduction · Roasted Eggplant · Cheddar cheese · Flourless chocolate cake
Mt. Veeder
Tucked away on the heavily wooded slopes of the southern Mayacamas Range, Mt. Veeder produces fruit of incredible concentration and structural integrity. At elevations reaching up to 2,400 feet, the vines struggle in shallow, volcanic, and ancient seabed soils, resulting in some of the smallest berries and lowest yields in Napa Valley. This unique terroir, influenced by the cool breezes of San Pablo Bay, allows for a longer growing season that imparts a signature "mountain soul"—a complex profile defined by dark brambly fruit, high-toned acidity, and deep, gravelly tannins.
Limited Release
This vintage commemorates the 30th anniversary of the boutique Michael-Scott brand. This limited bottling is crafted with ultra-premium fruit grown on the rugged, high-elevation slopes of Mt. Veeder in the Napa Valley—an appellation world-renowned for its low yields and profound mountain character.
Vintage
Up until Labor Day 2022, the weather had been relatively benign. Abundant winter rains at the end of 2021 and the start of 2022 alleviated the three-year drought. Budbreak was early, occurring in mid to late March or early April for most Bordeaux varieties. In fact, May, June, July, and August 2022 were about as smooth sailing as grape growing gets. The heatwave that came in the fall with the up and down temperatures, led producers to decide when to harvest the grapes. Wineries that made quick picking decisions were rewarded with well-balanced wines. The end result for many were a brilliant series of stylish, well-structured Cabernet Sauvignon that are opulent and showy at first, becoming richer and more complex as flavors develop in the glass.
Winemaker: Michael Quinn
Varietals: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley
Barrel Aging: 20 Months in French Oak
Vintage: 2022
Alcohol: 14.7%
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.
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.
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.
