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Cabernet Sauvignon

Waterstone Wines Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Napa Valley 2018

Vintage
After abundant rains in February, both bud break and flowering occurred a bit late but under ideal weather conditions. A mild summer brought generous sun (and no heat spikes) during the day and cool marine influences, while moderate heat in the fall extended harvest dates into October. The long hangtime produced fruit with great flavor complexity and phenominal phenolic development.

Vineyards
Well-established hillside vineyards are the foundation of this wine, giving the finished blend its intense inner core of fruit. The Truchard Vineyard was the primary source for grapes used in this blend, with vineyard sites extending into the lower hillsides of the Mayacamas mountain range.

Vinification
Following destemming, the hand-picked grapes were stainless steel-fermented and received extended skin contact before being transferred to barrels. The wine was aged in small French oak barrels for 22 months (40% new barrels) where the wine completed malolactic fermentation. The wine was racked prior to bottling.

Tasting Notes
This Cabernet Sauvignon showcases layers of sweet black cherry, warm baking spices, lead pencil shavings and mocha. Elegantly structured with plush mouth-filling tannins, fine dusty tannins, and a bright fruit expression; the wine finishes with notes of black currant and cassis.

Press & Acclaim
91 points - 2018 Vintage
"This wine has leafy character with notes of blackcurrants, dried rosemary and baking spices. Full-bodied with fine tannins. Soft and mild midpalate and a juicy mouthfeel. Shows some warmth at the end, but firms up. Fruity finish. "
- James Suckling Download PDF

91 points, Best Buy - 2016 Vintage
"A savory Napa Valley cabernet, this is long on zesty black-currant flavor and rich with the spiciness of grape skins, adding some resonance to the finish. It’s an impressive value..."
- JG, Wine & Spirits, April 2020 Download PDF

90 points - 2014 Vintage
"A red with lots of dried fruit, spice and walnut character. Full and chewy. Long and flavorful."
- James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, December 2017 Download PDF

92 points - 2013 Vintage
"Subtle aromas of blueberry, blackberry and bramble berry follo through to a full body, fine tannins and a fresh finish. Chewy and lively on the finish. Shows the tensions of the great 2013 vintage in Napa Valley. Why wait?"
- James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, January 2016 Download PDF

92 points - 2012 Vintage
"Subtle blackberry, black currant and hints of wood. Full to medium body, firm tannins and a fresh finish. Drink or hold.”"
- James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, July 2015 Download PDF

91 points - 2011 Vintage
"Subtle and fruity with refined tannins and a delicate finish. This is medium-bodied, with polished, silky tannins and a fresh finish. Always among the best value in outstanding, drinkable Napa Valley Cabernet. Drink now."
- James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, May 2014 Download PDF

92 points - 2010 Vintage
"I almost mistook this for an outstanding 2010 Bordeaux, but it's Waterstone, which always offers excellent value for Napa Cab. A juicy and fruity red with plenty of blueberry and vanilla character. Yet it's subtle and reserved. It's full body with a velvety texture and a long, harmonious and succulent finish. Delicious and lively. Drink or hold."
- James Suckling, Tasting Report, February 2014 Download PDF

Technical Data:
• Varietal Composition: 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc; 1% Petite Sirah
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Alcohol: 14.8%
• TA: 0.64g/100ml
• pH: 3.67
• Oak Aging: 22 months
• Oak Cooperage: French oak, 40% new
• Production: 1808 cases
• Bottling Date: January 19, 2021

Download tasting notes PDF

Past Vintages

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