Winemaker Notes
A classic expression of Napa Valley Cabernet, this wine combines beautiful complexity with rich intensity. Layers of blackberry, huckleberry and black currants are supported by firm, dusty tannins that frame the fruit. On the palate, it is juicy and bright, with luxurious cassis and dark berry flavors supported by notes of fig, cardamom, clove and cracked black pepper that linger on the long, well-structured finish.
Blend: 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc
Professional Ratings
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Wine & Spirits
There’s black-currant clarity to this clean and luscious cabernet, a blend of Duckhorn’s estate-grown fruit with purchased grapes. The dark fruit is layered with brighter black-raspberry flavor and rich chocolate tones from its time in French oak barrels (50 percent new). Relatively light in weight but saturated in flavor, the wine sustains a lovely mineral tension as it opens with air.
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James Suckling
Aromas of black olives and currants with hints of flowers and stones. Medium to full body, chewy and fine tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows some tea-leaf and spice undertones. 86% cabernet sauvignon, 8% merlot, 4% petit verdot and 2% cabernet franc. Drink or hold.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: With nearly 40 years under their Cabernet Sauvignon belt, Duckhorn Vineyards has established themselves as one of Napa's premier producers of this grape variety. The 2016 vintage is beautifully balanced and delicious. TASTING NOTES: This wine is smooth and well-textures with just enough sweet tannins to give it structure. Its aromas and flavors of blueberries and blackberries and open-knit. Pair it with an oven-baked eye of round roast. (Tasted: December 12, 2018, San Francisco, CA)
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Wine Spectator
Warm plum, blackberry and boysenberry reduction notes glide through, infused with sage, melted licorice and warm tobacco leaf accents. Takes on a gently mulled feel on the fleshy finish.
One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.
Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.