2019 Realm Hartwell XX
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Tasting notes
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hartwell XX emerges from two blocks on the original Hartwell property planted with the famous Grace clone of Cabernet Sauvignon. A dazzling wine, the XX may very well be the single most moving, expressive Cabernet I have ever tasted from Realm. In the glass, the XX is seamless, with layers of fruit that build effortlessly over time. The 2019 is not a big or opulent wine, but rather a Cabernet of total finesse. I loved it.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hartwell XX is another Stags Leap estate release coming from a slightly higher elevation block and older, heritage clones of Cabernet Sauvignon. Built for the long haul, it boasts pure blue fruits, cassis, gravelly earth, and violet nuances, and comes across as a classic Saint-Julien from a great vintage. Deep, concentrated, flawlessly balanced, and as seamless as they come, give it 3-4 years, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following two decades or more.
Realm recently purchased the old Hartwell property, constituting the highest blocks above their already estate-owned Stags Leap District vineyard (the source for Moonracer). The vines planted here originate from budwood acquired by Bob Hartwell (the previous owner) from Dick Grace of Grace Family Vineyards in the 1980s. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hartwell XX has an irresistibly fragrant nose, opening out to reveal notes of lilacs, Indian spices and fragrant soil over a core of blackcurrant jelly, boysenberries and licorice with a hint of beef drippings. The palate is a big, rich, full-bodied behemoth, with the most gorgeous velvety tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing very long and opulent.
About the producer
Realm Cellars has become one of Napa Valley’s most compelling modern estates, known for site-driven Cabernet Sauvignon. Drawing from some of the valley’s most sought-after vineyards, Realm’s wines consistently earn top critical acclaim while remaining firmly rooted in place.