2018 Janzen 'Cloudy's' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Don’t let anyone tell you to get your head out of the clouds! Janzen’s estate vineyard, “Cloudy’s” is hidden high in the Vaca Mountains on a steep slope that demands careful attention. Hard work pays off in this earthy, elegant, and classically structured Cabernet. It’s loaded with blue fruit, herbs and rocky earth balanced by floral nuances. Full-bodied, with a rounded, expansive texture and silky tannins, this satisfying indulgence will make your heart soar.
Claus Janzen doesn't shy away from taking the road less traveled. He originally made his mark on the local wine scene with the wholly unique "Bacio Divino," arguably Napa's most successful Tuscan-inspired red. When he moved that project into the world of Cabernet, he did so with the philosophy that it would be the vineyards rather than the blend that would drive the program's success. So, like many other notable Cabernet producers, Claus turned to vine guru Andy Beckstoffer for fruit, and the rest as they say, is history. With the help of lauded winemaker Kirk Venge, he has created a range of Napa Cabernets with completely unique personalities, and the critics have taken note. He's even dialed in a sensational Pinot Noir from a serious vineyard down south. Some of our favorite wines year in and year out, you'd be wise to pay attention to this lauded producer.
Jeb Dunnuck
Loads of spiced red and black fruits, mulled cherries, cedarwood, chocolate, and candied violet notes emerge from the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Janzen Cloudy's Vineyard, and this full-bodied beauty has a rounded, expansive texture as well as beautifully polished, silky tannins. This is a rockingly good Cabernet with plenty of richness and depth (it's no lightweight) yet I love its overall balance as well as its purity. It should evolve for 15-20 years with no issues.