2019 Favia 'La Magdalena' Red Wine Napa Valley
Arguably our most sought-after wine, sourced from the coveted Summit Block at Oakville Ranch high in the eastern red hills of Oakville, this unique wine hails from one of the finest areas in the world for growing Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. We have been making wine from these vines for over a decade, and the results are always spectacular. After 22 months in barrel and one year in bottle, this blend is tightly knit together, but with polish that makes it immediately seductive and satisfying. 62% Cabernet Franc, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon
You simply can’t make great wine without great grapes. Viticulturist Annie Favia learned this firsthand working for David Abreu for many years. Working with Abreu, she helped to plant Screaming Eagle. And of course this was after she studied winemaking with the likes of John Kongsgaard and Cathy Corison. Annie’s husband, Andy Erickson, is one of the most accomplished winemakers working in Napa right now. A valley resident since 1994, and a full time consultant since 2011, Erickson is currently leading the revitalization of Mayacamas Vineyards, and has worked for no less than Screaming Eagle, Harlan, Staglin, Dalla Valle, and Arietta. That’s about as good as an American winemaker’s resume can get. It’s hard to think of a more accomplished dream team working in the Valley right now. And they’re under one roof at their historic family home and cellar in Coombsville. Annie and Andy produce flawless, exquisitely crafted wines that are sold primarily to their mailing list and to restaurants.
Vinous
The 2019 La Magdalena is a Cabernet Franc-based blend from Oakville Ranch. It possesses tremendous mid-palateweight and density. Tasting it next to the Cerro Sur is so fascinating, as both wines are Franc-based and yet completely different. Red cherry, plum, mocha, licorice and lavender build into the potent, sumptuous finish.
International Wine Review
The 'La Magdalena' is once again a fantastic wine from Favia. It bursts open with profound aromas of dark cherries and blackberries, which are laced with loam, dark chocolate, herbs, violets, and licorice nuances all taking shape. The palate is full-bodied and intense, with a massive tannin structure that will need some time to integrate. Nonetheless, this is a fabulous wine with a deep expressive core that is layered with loads of dark fruits, spices and dusty notes which expand through the long, enveloping finish. There is certainly no shortage of substance here, however it is a bit agressive in its youth and patience will be required before approaching this age-worthy Cabernet Franc based wine from Andy Erickson.