2019 Herson Family - Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Persuasion (750ml)

Herson Family Vineyards is a small, husband and wife project out of Washington, D.C., founded by a couple who both work as lobbyists, one a Democrat and one a Republican. In a nod to their day jobs, they named their wines after the tools of political persuasion: the Chardonnay is called Influence, the Merlot is called Access, and this Cabernet Sauvignon carries the name Persuasion. The wines are made in tiny quantities by Bob Foley, who began his winemaking career in Napa Valley in 1977 after studying viticulture and enology at UC Davis, then spent time at Heitz Cellars before fifteen years as founding winemaker at Markham Vineyards. Foley now limits himself to just a handful of select projects, giving Herson Family his close personal attention.

This Persuasion bottling draws on fruit from top Napa Valley sites, crafted with a hands-on approach and no shortcuts or additives, reflecting Foley's instinct-driven style built over decades in the valley.

The wine shows ripe dark fruit and black cherry alongside espresso, vanilla, and a touch of licorice, with just a whisper of blackberry and green bell pepper for lift. Silky tannins, subtle acidity, and a full-bodied texture carry through a long, satisfying finish. It pairs well with a grilled rump steak, aged Gouda, or a rich dark chocolate dessert.