2016 EMH Vineyards - Cabernet Sauvignon Black Cat Napa
From EMH Vineyards’ small Napa Valley estate just east of the Silverado Trail, the 2016 Black Cat Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml) offers a single-vineyard expression crafted under the guidance of winemaker Kenn Vigoda. The fruit comes entirely from EMH’s own estate parcel, a gravelly loam site tucked into the hillside, and the production remains intentionally limited—roughly a hundred cases a year.
The Black Cat name honors a family pet, a motif that resonates through a wine designed to express the site with consistency year after year. Grapes are harvested at full ripeness, then fermented entirely as Cabernet Sauvignon and aged in French oak for well over a year, with a portion of new barrels used to round out the structure without overwhelming the fruit.
Tasting Notes
The wine presents a classic Black Cat profile of bright cherry and wild bramble fruit, layered with hints of anise, mint, and plum. Subtle accents of cocoa, cedar, and baking spice add depth. Medium-bodied with well-integrated tannins, the finish is long and balanced rather than heavy, making the wine approachable yet poised.
Winemaking & Terroir
Grown on EMH’s estate parcel, the grapes come from a small block of gravelly loam that contributes mineral lift and structure. After careful harvest, the fruit is fermented as 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged in French oak for an extended period, including a portion of new barrels to enhance depth while preserving the vibrant fruit character that defines Black Cat.
Food Pairings
- Roasted chicken
- Grilled pork tenderloin
- Manchego or other semi-firm cheeses