The 2019 vintage in Napa Valley was marked by favorable conditions. The year began with ample rainfall from January to May, ensuring the soil was sufficiently moist by the time budbreak occurred, setting the stage for a strong growing season. As summer progressed, temperatures rose, with a few extreme heat events, though Napa Valley’s proximity to the cold Pacific Ocean provided relief. The cool air and morning fog tempered the heat, leading to vibrant and expressive wines that retained their acidity and complexity. The harvest itself was long and steady, starting in early September and wrapping up at the end of October. The 2019 vintage is now regarded as a classic in Napa Valley, with wines exhibiting plush tannins, deep color, and rich, ripe fruit characteristics.
2019 Winemaker's Tasting Note
This wine presents a deep ruby color, revealing a fragrant bouquet of blackberries, cassis, and subtle baking spices on the nose. The palate is filled with rich flavors of black plum and sweet oak. It offers an opulent and velvety mouthfeel with a plush, smooth texture that is elegant and balanced. The flavors become denser and more complex as the wine lingers on the palate, gaining depth and richness with a long, fresh finish. Enjoy now or cellar for later.
94 Points, Wine Spectator
Fresh, ripe and pure, with a sleek feel to its core of cassis and plum puree flavors, which are inlaid liberally with notes of singed vanilla, cedar and warm red licorice, plus a late tug of earth on the finish. Nicely polished overall, showing the vintages’ s copious fruit profile. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2025 through 2038. 200 cases made.
— James Molesworth