2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
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Critic scores
Average Score
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Independent
The Wine Palate
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The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, with just under 5% of it aged in amphoras. Deep garnet-purple colored, it needs considerable swirling to uncover notes of fresh black and red currants, black raspberries, and kirsch, plus suggestions of cracked black pepper, underbrush and pencil shavings with a waft of rose oil. The full-bodied palate is densely laden with crunchy black berry layers, framed by beautifully ripe tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing long with loads of earth and mineral sparks. It needs time!
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful, explosive wine that is going to need a number of years to be at its finest. The energy and raw intensity are so pronounced. Inky dark fruit, spice, menthol, licorice and cedar add striking aromatic nuance, but it is the wine's phenomenal balance that stands out most. This is the first vintage that includes component wine aged in amphora. This is far from an easygoing 2018.
About the producer
Dalla Valle Vineyards was founded in 1986 by Naoko and her late husband Gustav Dalla Valle, in Oakville. Initially they had wanted to create a luxury resort, but when they discovered the potential of the site, they changed tack and decided to make wine.