2017 Davis Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
This impressive, deep-purple Cabernet meets the nose with fragrant black currant and blackberry alongside savory notes of smoked meat. The palate is balanced and round, with a concentrated mouthfeel that brings a surge of ripe, dark fruit infused with mineral, pepper, oak and licorice. The complex layers of fruit and spice lead to a dry, dusty finish that lingers for great length.
Mike and Sandy Davis made a big play with their recent acquisition of some prized land near Calistoga for their up-and-coming winery. And though they may be new to the game (they spent 23 years working together in the technology sector), their instincts and vision will have them atop the mountain in short order. They’re doing things the right way. The 155-acre Calistoga property has been home to wine-growing families since 1873. With an elevation ranging from 50 to 1,400 feet, to say they’re working with a diverse array of soil types and microclimates would be far underselling their options in the vineyard. We got in on this game early. You’d be wise to do the same.
James Suckling
Very intense aromas of chocolate and red berries with a supple, succulent palate that has very concentrated, fine tannins that carry such fresh and ripe blackberry and blackcurrant flavors. Plush and powerful cabernet. Drink or hold.