Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
A blend of 65% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon raised in 40% new French oak, the deep purple-colored 2016 Red Blend Reserve gives up terrific notes of black raspberries, cassis, black cherries, cedary spice, and dried flowers. It's rich, medium to full-bodied, and incredibly elegant, with sweet tannins and a great finish. Drink this balanced, seamless blend over the coming 15 years or so.
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James Suckling
Firm and silky red with dark-berry and currant aromas and flavors. Medium body. Flavorful finish. Delicious now. 65% merlot, 25% cabernet franc and 10% cabernet sauvignon. Drink now or hold.
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.