2021 Barnett Vineyards - Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (750ml)

Barnett Vineyards was founded in 1983 by Hal and Fiona Barnett on a steep, forested parcel along Spring Mountain Road, high above St. Helena on the Mayacamas range dividing Napa and Sonoma. What began as a weekend retreat grew into one of Spring Mountain's most respected estates, now guided by winemaker David Tate, who farms each block vine by vine on slopes climbing to thirty-five degrees and supplements the estate crop with fruit from neighboring York Creek Vineyard.

The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon comes from vineyards planted in the volcanic and sedimentary soils typical of Spring Mountain, at elevations reaching above a thousand feet where cooling Pacific breezes temper the summer heat. The wine is a blend built mainly around Cabernet Sauvignon with small additions of Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Following harvest, each block ferments separately with regular punch-downs to build color and structure before aging in French oak.

Deep purple in the glass, the 2021 offers cassis, dark plum, and black licorice over coffee grounds and dark chocolate. The palate is full and silky, with mocha and dark cherry flavors framed by chalky, mountain-bred tannins and bright acidity. It pairs well with grilled lamb chops or aged gouda.