93 Points - Chris Sawyer "Sommelier to the Stars"
This deep, rich and powerful proprietary blend is made with world-class grapes grown at rugged rocky sites located in the high-elevation appellations of Howell Mountain (70%) and Mt. Veeder (30%) towering above Napa Valley. Distinct, complex, and a true Napa Valley gem with only 216 cases produced.
Food Pairings: Rich, round and opulent with dynamic mountain character. This is a great wine to pair with a selection of artisan style salami, hard cheeses, eggplant parmesan, wild mushroom raviolis, juicy steaks, gamey meats, slow-roasted stews, or rack of lamb.
Varietals: Cabernet Franc (52%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (38%) play the lead roles, with the smaller portions of Malbec, Petite Verdot and Merlot
Appellation: Napa Valley, Howell Mountain (70%) and Mt. Veeder (30%)
Alcohol: 14% by volume
Aging: 22 months on American oak
90 Points
Ruby-plum core with a light purple rim in the glass. The palate opens with cranberry, cherry fruit and wood spice dominate. Cherry and plum notes pump through with a medium-bodied texture. Smooth tannins and soft finish showcase its layered complexity.
92 Points
Aromas of red raspberry, jammed dark fruit, cinnamon spice and clove. Hints of sliced ripe plum, black tea and lavender oil adds to its complexity. Flavors of blueberry, elderberry, and cranberry are enhanced with oak spice and baking notes from the barrels. These flavors marry with soft tannins for a long and mouthwatering finish.
92 Points
Juicy blackberries and black cherries accented by mint and chocolate. Full-bodied, deeply colored, with a hint of white pepper, dried herbs and toasted bread. Delivers a substantial mid-palate of dark fruits, black tea, baked cherry, fruit preserves and licorice. Sophisticated and sumptuous. A great example of the varietal, brooding with depth and complexity. Notes of toast and oak, with integrated tannins and textural polish on the finish.
