Winemaker Notes
The 2019 Ehlers Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a luscious wine and a great representation of the Napa Valley. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from our Estate vineyard dominate the blend, accompanied by Cabernet Sauvignon from carefully selected Howell Mountain and Napa vineyard sites. Deep purple, concentrated aromas of blackberries, mineral notes of graphite and smashed rocks, cedar, tobacco leaf, cassis, and dry herbs spice mix. Ample mouth feel, full-body, with firm tannins and great acid structure, that helps accentuate the flavors of berry compote, spices, and oak flavors like mocha. Very long finish. Enjoyable now but will age well for 15-20 more years.
Blend: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc
Professional Ratings
-
James Suckling
An array of ripe blueberries and plums with notes of licorice, coffee and a hint of mint. Full-bodied with a soft, creamy texture, mild fruit and polished tannins. Long and chocolatey.
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.