2021 Darioush - Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Caravan

The 2021 Caravan is Darioush’s Bordeaux-style blend, crafted to be more approachable in its youth than their flagship Cabernet while maintaining the estate’s signature intensity and polish. In a concentrated vintage like 2021, this wine shows remarkable depth and structure.  

Tasting Profile

• Nose: Highly expressive and "lifted," featuring aromas of Damson plum, fig, and vibrant black cherry. Subtle savory undertones of cedar, lavender brush, and green tea add complexity.  
• Palate: Full-bodied and plush. A core of rich red fruits—think raspberry compote and red licorice—is balanced by darker notes of baker’s chocolate, graphite, and exotic spices.  
• Finish: The finish is long and well-balanced, supported by the "firmly framed" tannins typical of the 2021 Napa vintage, leaving a lingering impression of dark fruit and polished oak.  

Technical Details

• Appellation: Napa Valley  
• Varietal Blend: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot  
• Aging: 22 months in French oak barrels (60% new, 40% neutral)  
• Alcohol: Approximately 15.4%  
• Winemaker: Hope Goldie  
• Critical Acclaim: Rated 92 Points by James Suckling and Jeb Dunnuck 

Food Pairings

This wine’s bold structure and fruit density make it a natural partner for savory, high-protein dishes:

• Meats: Grilled ribeye steak with a peppercorn crust, braised short ribs, or herb-crusted rack of lamb.
• Cheese: Aged Gouda, sharp Cheddar, or Point Reyes Blue.
• Service Tip: For the best experience, decant for 1–2 hours before serving at roughly 16–18°C (60–65°F).