2022 Clos Du Val - Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Estate (750ml)

Clos Du Val was founded in 1972 by John and Henrietta Goelet, who sent French winemaker Bernard Portet on a two-year search across the globe to find a site capable of rivaling Bordeaux for Cabernet Sauvignon. That search led him to the Stags Leap District, where the estate's debut 1972 Cabernet Sauvignon went on to place among the top entries at the legendary 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting, and took first place outright in the 1986 rematch. Still family-owned today under third-generation leadership, the winery has scaled back production over the years to focus almost entirely on its own estate-grown fruit.

This 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Clos Du Val's Hirondelle Estate Vineyard in the Stags Leap District, a narrow, sheltered stretch of Napa Valley cooled by breezes drawn in from San Pablo Bay. That climate helps build velvety tannins and natural acidity in the fruit while retaining pure varietal character. The wine is blended with small amounts of Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, rounding out the Cabernet Sauvignon with added complexity and structure.

Aromas of blackberry, cassis, violet, and fresh herbs lead into a palate of juicy black fruit layered with spice. Balanced acidity and fine-grained tannins carry through to a long, mouthwatering finish. It's approachable now with a decant, and pairs well with grilled lamb, aged hard cheeses, or a rich mushroom ragout.