Winemaker Notes
The 2022 CRU Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a surprisingly youthful and fresh, yet full-bodied and concentrated wine from what was considered a warmer vintage in Napa Valley. Brambly blackberry, ripe blueberry and violet aromas are complemented by hints of mocha and roasted coffee bean provided by beautifully integrated fine grain, thin stave, French oak barrels. Juicy upon entry, rich and round throughout, this wine boasts an ideal acid structure and firm tannin profile. CRU is consistently crafted to be enjoyed upon release but this fine Napa Valley Cabernet will age gracefully for well over a decade.
Blend: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petite Verdot, 3% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Beautiful red and black fruits, new leather, graphite, and floral incense notes emerge from the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Cru, a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Merlot. Medium to full-bodied, round, and textured, with fine tannins, this nicely balanced effort.
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.