Winemaker Notes
The inky purple-black in the glass hints towards the depth and concentration of the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon. Forest floor, warm spice, and a core of cassis entice the nose. Sable fruit and dried tarragon occupy the full-bodied and vibrant palate, finishing on dark chocolate and blackberry compote.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Composed of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon from Pritchard Hill and aged 22 months in 70% new French oak, the deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Proprietary Red Estate is a little closed, slowly revealing notes of crushed black cherries, mulberries, redcurrant jelly and licorice with hints of pencil shavings and incense plus a waft of potpourri. The palate is full-bodied and concentrated with loads of energy and depth, framed by ripe, grainy tannins and finishing long and lively. Beautiful.
Rating: 96+
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.