Winemaker Notes
Bold and elegant. Rich blackberry, black currant, and ripe plum are layered with notes of mocha, cedar, and graphite. Concentrated dark fruit unfolds with depth with fine-grained tannins. Refined, showcasing both the power and finesse of the terroir.
Blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Professional Ratings
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Decanter
Power and generosity define this Reserve Cabernet from winemaker Keith Emerson (of Vineyard 29 and Gundlach Bundschu Winery). Unsurprisingly, there is a firm spine of crunchy acid tension underpinning the wine, and from there it is quintessentially Napa: bold dark fruit, hedonistic yet well-integrated toasty oak, and a core of focused red and black fruit resting on a bed of robust, firm tannins that provide real grip and drive. Readers familiar with the Tilth wines should note the dramatic transformation they have undergone in recent years, especially under Emerson’s direction. Today, they are far more structured, more cellar-worthy, yet ultimately approachable and best enjoyed alongside a meal.
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.