2023 Ashes & Diamonds - Cabernet Sauvignon No. 2 Napa (750ml)

Located at the gateway to Napa Valley along Highway 29, Ashes & Diamonds crafts wines that lean into terroir with a light touch in the cellar. The Cabernet Sauvignon No. 2 bottle draws from select Oak Knoll District vineyards at the mouth of the valley, where morning fog and afternoon sea breezes slow ripening for balanced richness rather than heat-driven extremes.

The 2023 vintage is a thoughtful blend: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. It spent 16 months maring in a mix of French and Austrian oak, with roughly one-third in new barrels, shaping a wine that sits in the middle of medium to full-bodied with a silky texture and a frame that stays poised rather than aggressively tannic.

Tasting profile

• Nose: graham cracker and mint unfold over cassis-dark fruit, creating a fragrant, inviting start.
• Palate: blackberry and currant provide depth, complemented by savory notes of leather, tobacco, and baking spice, with earthy undertones that add complexity.
• Finish: a long, elegant finish that carries the fruit and tannins with balance, suggesting a wine built for both present enjoyment and several years of cellaring.

Vinification & aging

• Blend: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc
• Aging: 16 months in a mix of French and Austrian oak
• Oak impact: roughly one-third new barrels, contributing structure without overpowering the grape character

Pairings and drinking windows

This Cabernet Sauvignon No. 2 shines alongside classic Napa Valley dishes. Pair it with grilled steak, braised short ribs, or aged hard cheeses to echo the wine’s savory depth and fruit-forward balance. With its combination of approachable richness and underlying backbone, it suits near-term enjoyment and has the potential to reward several years of careful aging.