The Napa Valley Reserve (tnvr)
Continuum
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2022
2022 vintage. Light-medium body. Not decanted and tasted after 2 hours open. Dusty, earthy intro. Some cherry mid-palate with a return to forever dust, earth, herbs, spices, Etsy/micro-producer attitude paired with serious backing and terroir. Long finish. Wanted and expected both more front and mid-palate action and mouthfeel but wasn't getting it. To be fair...without a decant...and a new release as a distinctively different (leaner) style would be a slight miracle to be (perceived) as a pop and pour. Needs at least a half-decade to be fairly assessed but, decidedly, quality juice. 10.25.25. — a day ago
Shafer Vineyards
Hillside Select Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Opened and decanted for 2 hours before dinner and then really only opened up and truly hit expectations around the 3rd hour when paired with wagyu strip steaks.
This wine was savory tightly wound and tannic at first. Didn’t show much fruit until after the long decant and then it really changed.
With time, the fruits shown through with great complexity and great balance for the savory elements. — 8 days ago
Jason Phillips
Deep ruby color. Red fruit, black currant, and cedar on the nose. Dry and bold. Flavors of blackberrt, chocolate, oak, and coffee. Medium+ tannins and acid with a great finish. Number 2 in top 100 in Wine Spectator. — 6 days ago