Winemaker Notes
The mineral, graphite and black thorny-vine fruits are all on full display in this mountain sourced wine. The tiny clusters that proliferated in 2023 at high elevations in the Napa Valley provide strength and structure in this deeply colored Bordeaux blend. The long, cool vintage was ideal for power and backbone. A more judicious use of new French Oak helps the dark fruit to pour from the glass and extend on the palate.
Blend: 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 5% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Affinity is a fine introduction to this range. Brisk acids, red-toned fruit, blood orange and cinnamon lend notable energy. Bright and focused, the 2023 is positively stellar. This is the first vintage that blends fruit from Mt. Veeder and Moon Mountain, two sides of the same mountain. A year or two in bottle should help soften the tannins.
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.