Winemaker Notes
Following on the heels of the much-heralded 2018 vintage, the wines from 2019—another nearly flawless growing season—have surprised and delighted us from the very beginning. In contrast to the 2018 wines, which are characterized by their breadth, richness, and generosity, the 2019 vintage wines are defined by a high level of energy, intensity, and precision. There is a similarly impressive weight to the wines, and the hedonistic appeal is there in spades. However, along with the dark hues, depth, and opacity of the wines comes an aromatic brightness and a remarkable level of detail and finesse. The slightly lower yields in the vineyard in 2019 also added to the concentration and structure, elements that will certainly help the wines to age for many years to come.
Blend: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Checking in as 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot, the 2019 Red Blend Quartet offers up a ripe, yet pure bouquet of blue fruits (blueberries, cassis), lots of spring flowers and tobacco, medium to full body, a pure, sumptuous mouthfeel, silky tannins, and a great finish. It's a great value.
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James Suckling
Aromas of blackcurrants, sour cherries, blackberry leaves, dried thyme and spice box. Some earthy undertones. Full body with firm, supple tannins. Creamy finish. 55% cabernet sauvignon, 39% merlot, 4% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot. Drink or hold.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Composed of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, the deep garnet-purple colored 2019 Quartet sings of black cherries, plum preserves and black raspberries, plus hints of dried Provence herbs and mossy tree bark. Full-bodied, soft and juicy in the mouth, it has loads of bright red fruit and herbal sparks lifting the decadent ripe black fruit preserves flavors, finishing long and mineral laced.
Undoubtedly proving its merit over and over, Napa Valley is a now a leading force in the world of prestigious red wine regions. Though Cabernet Sauvignon dominates Napa Valley, other red varieties certainly thrive here. Important but often overlooked include Merlot and other Bordeaux varieties well-regarded on their own as well as for their blending capacities. Very old vine Zinfandel represents an important historical stronghold for the region and Pinot noir is produced in the cooler southern parts, close to the San Pablo Bay.
Perfectly situated running north to south, the valley acts as a corridor, pulling cool, moist air up from the San Pablo Bay in the evenings during the hot days of the growing season, which leads to even and slow grape ripening. Furthermore the valley claims over 100 soil variations including layers of volcanic, gravel, sand and silt—a combination excellent for world-class red wine production.