Winemaker Notes
From a legendary vineyard that is farmed by the University of California, Davis, this is a brilliant expression of Oakville terroir. Bold, ripe fruit aromas with some spice and dried herb notes. Smooth and round on entry the Merlot in this blend offers a juicy fruit-focused core that balances the big flavors that we expect from Oakville Cabernet. Expressive yet nuanced, this wine delivers a full-bodied lush core with layers of spice, and a touch of earthiness. True to its heritage, this Bordeaux blend expresses the best that Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc have to offer. Lush and full, the supple tannins linger in a savory, fruit-laced finish.
Critical Acclaim
All Vintages
Twenty-six years in, the next generation of Cornerstone Cellars sales and winemaking teams bring to market a diverse portfolio of Cabernet Sauvignon wines –of which each one delivers a focused flavor profile - with realistic pricing to match. Now more than ever, they are resolved to implement a long-term brand development strategy and to constantly renew their commitment to that original winemaking ideology and style.
Home to some of the most sought-after Cabernet Sauvignon in America, Napa Valley’s Oakville district stretches across the center of Napa's valley floor and foothills between the Vaca and Mayacamas Mountains. This AVA is home to the legendary To Kalon Vineyard and Martha's Vineyard, as well as many powerhouse wineries including Screaming Eagle, Silver Oak, Robert Mondavi, Opus One, Far Niente and Groth.
The climate is generally warm and agreeable, resulting in year after year of favorable vintages. Summer days see a gentle tug of war between warmer inland air and the cool air coming in from the San Pablo Bay, creating an ideal environment to grow red varieties. Oakville's diverse soils, namely ancient sea bedrock, clay and gravel, are well-drained, and perfect for high-caliber viticulture.
Cabernet here is often bottled varietally but is also popular in Bordeaux Blends. Oakville wines are known for their silky, sensual textures, structured tannins, dark and brooding fruit and lovely aromatics. These age-worthy and prestigious wines are favored by collectors throughout the world.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.