2019 Janzen 'Cloudy's Vineyard' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Generally the first of our Janzen vineyard designate wines to show in full force early in it’s lifespan, this vintage of Cloudy’s is no exception. As your nose hits the glass you are immediately rewarded with aromatic notes of sweet oak, violets and blue fruit . Gobs of fresh cassis and plum envelope the palate, with hints of dried herbs and velvety tannins for a long finish.
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 He originally made his mark on the local wine scene with the wholly unique "Bacio Divino," arguably Napa's most successful Tuscan-inspired red.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
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Janzen Cloudy's Vineyard comes from an estate vineyard located in the Dutch Henry Canyon, situated between the Switchback and Hourglass vineyards. Ripe currants, blueberries, leafy tobacco, iron, and chocolate all emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a focused, elegant mouthfeel, a terrific sense of freshness, and outstanding length. It's drinking nicely today, yet this beauty should easily have 15+ years of total longevity.